Alfaro Seeks Top-Level Challenges for Albirroja Rivals
Gustavo Alfaro, the head coach of Paraguay’s national football team, addressed international media at the Panasonic Stadium in Osaka. The occasion was the team’s upcoming match against Japan on October 10, as part of FIFA events.
Top-Level Challenges for Albirroja Against Japan
Alfaro emphasized the importance of playing against top-ranked teams. He stated, “These matches are chosen for their level, hierarchy, and complexity.” The coach noted that Japan and South Korea are both ranked higher in the FIFA standings and recognized as two of the best teams in the world.
Importance of Competitive Matches
Facing Japan is crucial for Alfaro and the Albirroja. “Japan is a prestigious and risky team. Our goal is to prepare effectively for the next World Cup,” he explained. The coach highlighted the value of experiencing challenging situations as part of the team’s preparation.
- Match Date: October 10
- Kick-off Time: 07:20 AM (Paraguayan time)
- Opponents: Japan, South Korea, and additional requests for European and African teams in March.
Alfaro stressed the necessity of testing the team against superior opponents. These challenges are vital for identifying areas needing improvement. He has previously arranged matches with the United States and Mexico for this purpose.
Strategic Preparation for the World Cup
The head coach believes these high-level encounters will help the team prepare adequately for the World Cup. “Without this level of challenge, we won’t know what we need to improve for a successful tournament.” This understanding drives the team’s current preparations and future engagements.
