Tactical Breakdown: Paraguay Secures 2-1 Victory Over Mexico at Alamodome

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Paraguay secured a 2-1 victory over Mexico at the Alamodome on Tuesday night, capitalizing on second-half substitutions and clinical finishing to hand El Tri their third winless match in five outings.

Head coach Gustavo Alfaro's halftime adjustments proved decisive. The introduction of Julio Enciso and Damián Bobadilla transformed Paraguay's attacking threat, with both substitutes combining for the match-winning goal sequence. Enciso provided assists on both Paraguay goals, demonstrating the creative spark Mexico's midfield struggled to contain.

Antonio Sanabria opened the scoring in the 48th minute, converting Enciso's precise through ball to break the deadlock. Mexico responded quickly when Raúl Jiménez converted a 54th-minute penalty after Braian Ojeda fouled Orbelín Pineda in the area. However, Paraguay reclaimed the lead just two minutes later when Bobadilla headed home Enciso's service to complete the comeback.

Mexico dominated possession with 71.5 percent of the ball but failed to convert territorial advantage into goals. Javier Aguirre's side generated nine shot attempts with four on target, yet struggled to break down Paraguay's compact defensive structure. Paraguay countered efficiently, recording 14 shot attempts and seven on target despite controlling just 28.5 percent of possession.

The match grew physical as Mexico searched for an equalizer, with both teams combining for 33 fouls. Erik Lira received a yellow card in the 24th minute, followed by Raúl Jiménez (36') and Paraguay's Alan Benítez (37'). Orbelín Pineda added a fourth caution in the 77th minute as frustration mounted.

Mexico's attacking struggles continued a worrying trend. El Tri has now recorded just two wins in their last nine matches, failing to score in four of those fixtures. The defeat leaves Aguirre with significant tactical questions as Mexico prepares for the 2026 World Cup on home soil.