Mexico 1–2 Paraguay

By Alonso Contreras

Paraguay came from behind to defeat Mexico 2–1 in a spirited and intense international friendly, with all three goals arriving in a dramatic second half. After a scoreless first period, the match opened up quickly after the restart, producing a fast-paced and physical contest.

First Half

The opening 45 minutes were tight and tactical, with both teams struggling to create clear scoring chances. Mexico controlled more possession but found it difficult to break down Paraguay’s organized defensive structure.

The half featured several yellow cards as physical battles intensified. Érik Lira was booked in the 24th minute for Mexico, followed by Raúl Jiménez in the 36th minute. Paraguay’s Alan Benítez was also shown a yellow card one minute later. With neither side able to find the breakthrough, the teams entered halftime level at 0–0.

Second Half

The match transformed immediately after the restart. Paraguay struck first in the 48th minute when Antonio Sanabria finished a sharp attacking move assisted by Julio Enciso, giving the visitors a 1–0 lead.

Mexico responded quickly. In the 54th minute, Raúl Jiménez equalized with a composed finish, bringing the score to 1–1 and reigniting the home crowd.

But Paraguay reclaimed the lead only two minutes later. A precise cross from Enciso found Damián Bobadilla, who powered a header past the goalkeeper in the 56th minute to put Paraguay ahead 2–1. It was Bobadilla’s second-half introduction that proved decisive.

Substitutions and Closing Minutes

Both sides made extensive changes as the match progressed. Mexico introduced Gallardo, Alvarado, Vásquez, Álvarez, and González in an attempt to regain control, while Paraguay refreshed their lineup with Bobadilla, Enciso, Arce, González, and Romero.

Mexico pushed for a late equalizer but struggled to create high-quality chances. The only late notable disciplinary moment was a yellow card shown to Orbelín Pineda in the 77th minute.

Paraguay managed the final stages well, holding firm defensively and slowing the tempo. They closed out the match to secure a hard-earned victory on the road.

Full-Time

Final Score: Mexico 1, Paraguay 2

Paraguay’s clinical finishing and the impact of their halftime substitutes proved the difference, while Mexico were left to regret defensive lapses during a frantic early second-half stretch.