Colombia and Paraguay Face Off in Friendly in the US

On Friday, October 2, the Colombia national team plays against Paraguay in a friendly in the United States, generating great interest among fans and the press. The clash takes place at 7 p.m. (Colombian time) at the Sports Illustrated Stadium in New Jersey and will be broadcast live by Caracol Televisión, GolCaracol.com, the YouTube channel and Ditu.

Match details and broadcast

The game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. (Colombian time) at the Sports Illustrated Stadium, home of the New York Red Bulls in MLS. Caracol Televisión will provide free‑to‑air TV coverage, while the stream will be available on the aforementioned websites and digital channels.

How Colombia arrived

After a 1‑1 draw with Mexico in the first warm‑up match, the Tricolor comes into the fixture with a lineup that includes new faces and players who took part in previous processes under Néstor Lorenzo. The goal against Mexico was scored by Luis Javier Suárez after a header from Richard Rios, while Mexico responded through Gilberto Mora.

How Paraguay arrived

Paraguay reaches the friendly after a 2‑0 victory over Bolivia in Washington. The standout was Miguel Almirón of Atlanta United, who netted both goals. The team remains under the guidance of Gustavo Alfrou, who led the side to qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Gustavo Alfrou’s comment on Colombia

Before the match, the Argentine coach of Paraguay compared Colombia to a “Frankenstein,” referring to the mix of characteristics from different South American teams he sees in Néstor Lorenzo’s squad. Alfrou highlighted defensive solidity, intensity and speed in attack, citing influences from Uruguay, Ecuador, Bolivia and, of course, Colombia itself.

Recent history between the teams

The last meeting between the two sides took place in the South American World Cup qualifiers, ending in a 2‑2 draw at the Metropolitano de Barranquilla. Colombia opened the scoring with two goals, but Paraguay managed to equalize.

Expectations for the friendly

The friendly serves as Colombia’s second preparation test within the FIFA window, allowing the coach to assess the integration of new players and tactical adjustments. For Paraguay, the match offers the chance to cement Almirón’s offensive performance and validate Alfrou’s strategy ahead of the World Cup qualifying phase.

With information from El Tiempo, Noticias Caracol.