Omar Alderete Playing today? USA vs Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Defender Omar Alderete should be one of the pillars of Paraguay’s defense in the debut of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this Friday (12), against the United States, at SoFi Stadium, in Inglewood, Los Angeles region. At 29 years old, the Sunderland player arrives in good form in the Premier League and as a reference for Albirroja’s defensive line.

Born on December 26, 1996, in Asunción, Alderete built a solid career in Europe. After spells at Basel, Hertha Berlin and Getafe, he transferred to Sunderland in August 2025. In the 2025/26 Premier League season, he played more than 30 games, highlighting tackles, blocking shots and leading the defense.

Solidity and physical presence of Alderete

At 1.90m tall, with a left foot and a fierce style, Alderete forms a solid duo with Gustavo Gómez. He has played around 36 games for the senior team, with important goals in the qualifiers, including a decisive header against Argentina. In Gustavo Alfaro’s scheme, his aerial strength, positioning and ability to get the ball out are fundamental to containing the American attack.

Challenge against US attack

Os Estados Unidos estreiam em casa com nomes de alto nível como Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun e meio-campistas versáteis. Alderete will have the mission of organizing the Paraguayan defense, known for its solidity in the qualifiers, and limiting the home team’s aerial plays and quick transitions. Dutch referee Danny Makkelie whistles the match.

Historical tour of the Albirroja

Paraguay returns to the World Cup after a 16-year absence and seeks to score against the host in Group D, which also includes Australia and Türkiye. Alderete symbolizes the team’s determination and European experience, which stands out for its defensive organization.

Recent history shows the Americans beating Paraguay 2-1 in a friendly in 2025. In the World Cup, the weight is greater, and Alderete’s consistency in defense could be decisive in securing the result.

Alderete as a defensive reference

Alongside midfielders like Andrés Cubas and Damián Bobadilla, and attackers like Miguel Almirón, the defender reinforces the team’s tactical balance. A good performance in the debut could mark the beginning of a historic campaign for Paraguay and consolidate their name as a pillar of defense.

The match is scheduled for 10pm (Brasília time). SoFi Stadium is expected to register a large crowd for the group’s opening duel.