Bolivia Faces Paraguay in Friendly in the United States

On Sunday afternoon, the Bolivian national team will face Paraguay on neutral ground at Audi Field in Washington, United States. The match is part of the year's third-to-last FIFA date and serves as a test for Bolivia's long-term plan towards the 2030 World Cup.

Why the Friendly Gains Prominence

The clash comes after Bolivia's defeat to Paraguay in Asunción (1-0) and a draw in El Alto (2-2) in the last South American qualifiers, besides marking Bolivia's first match since the international playoff in March.

History of Clashes Between Bolivia and Paraguay

Since the first friendly recorded on March 31, 1973, the two national teams have faced each other numerous times outside official competitions, with results varying between draws, victories, and defeats for both sides.

Bolivia's Objectives for the Friendly

According to former Paraguayan player Pablo Escobar, now development director for the Bolivian Football Federation, the encounter serves to "monitor the long-term process" and allow the young squad, with an average age between 23 and 24, to "compete on equal terms" with other national teams.

Bolivia's Probable Lineup

Coach Óscar Villegas is expected to maintain the core squad that played in the playoff, with Guillermo Viscarra in goal, Luis Haquín as defensive captain, Gabriel Villamil and Ramiro Vaca in midfield, and Miguel Terceros as an attacker.

Argentinian Challenge and Next Commitment

After the match against Paraguay, Bolivia will face Argentina in Córdoba on September 30, and will conclude the friendly phase against Gambia in Santa Cruz on October 4, aiming to consolidate collective performance and gain credibility for the new qualification cycle.

With information from OneFootball, VS Sports, El País Tarija.