The story that left its mark on the World Cup! He sold his cleats to keep his daughter alive.

05.07.2026 14:10

In Paraguay, which bid farewell to the World Cup after a 1-0 loss to France, Head Coach Gustavo Alfaro gave an emotional statement after the match. Alfaro recounted that goalkeeper Orlando Gill sold his clothes and cleats for his daughter's treatment, saying his players are fighting not just in football, but in life.

In the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, France faced Paraguay. Struggling to break through Paraguay's disciplined defense for a long time, France won the match 1-0 with a penalty goal from Kylian Mbappe. With this result, France advanced to the quarterfinals, while Paraguay bid farewell to the tournament in the round of 16.

"I AM LEFT ALONE WITH THIS PAIN"

Speaking after the match, Paraguay head coach Gustavo Alfaro expressed his disappointment, stating that their goal was to go further.

Alfaro said, "I wanted to make a revolution in Paraguay, to take this team further. I truly believed in that. Now I am left alone with this pain."

HE TOLD OF HIS PLAYERS' STRUGGLE FOR LIFE

The experienced coach highlighted the difference in circumstances between France and Paraguay, stating that his players are not only playing football but also fighting for their lives.

Alfaro noted that French players strive to win Ballon d'Or awards, break World Cup records, and sign big contracts, while some players in his own team grew up with severe traumas.

Using goalkeeper Orlando Gill as an example, Alfaro recounted how his player, during periods when he did not receive his salary from his club for a long time, had to sell his training clothes, cleats, and youth national team jersey to cover his sick daughter's medical expenses.

"WE CAME TO SHOW THE HONOR OF THE PARAGUAYAN PEOPLE"

Emphasizing his pride in his team, Alfaro said, "Today we only lost a football match. When you see what my players have sacrificed, it is impossible not to be proud of them. France may have advanced, but we came here not just to play football, but to show the honor and resilience of the Paraguayan people to the world."