It took 22 years for Paraguay to get revenge for that 2002 World Cup, when they were eliminated by Germany, ending the Guaraní dream. Now, in Massachusetts, their chance came in the Round of 32, and they seized it.
For Matias Galarza, number 23 on the Paraguayan team, “the victory belonged to everyone,” he said in the mixed zone at the New England Patriots’ stadium in the NFL.
“Today, the team was the star. I think there was a lot of talk, and I believe that today Paraguay demonstrated the Guarani spirit—what defines us. Honestly, I’m happy; I’m thrilled. It’s a unique night for me, and I think it will be unforgettable for the rest of my life,” he said.
Julio Enciso, who scored the first goal of the match, stated:
“I’m happy with the victory, happy with my teammates’ dedication. The truth is, we have to thank God for giving us this victory. It was a difficult week—a very difficult week—during which we felt alone. There were people who doubted us, but the team never doubted us,” he commented.
Paraguay will face the winner of the France-Sweden match in the Round of 16 in Philadelphia on Saturday, July 4.
