Paraguay are set to face the current world champions Argentina in the upcoming fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción on November 15. Ahead of the clash, the Paraguay FA has banned the rival’s jersey in stands including Argentine skipper Lionel Messi to have a complete home advantage during the match. In their statement, Paraguay have warned the fans to not bring any jersey that doesn’t belong to their country.
The 2022 FIFA world champions Argentina are currently at the top of the points table of the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup qualifiers with seven wins in 10 games. On the other hand, the hosts Paraguay, are just above the qualification criteria standing in sixth position with three wins in 10 games so far. As quoted by Latestly, Paraguay don’t want to see the stands filled with Lionel Messi’s number 10 jersey during the match against Argentina.
This is not an issue against any player: Paraguay FC Licensing Manager
However, this is not the first time that Paraguay have banned an opponent’s jersey in the stands for their team’s benefit. The similar incident took place when they hosted Brazil at Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción on September 11. It looks like the decision benefitted the hosts as they defeated the five-time world champions by 1-0 in that game. Paraguay FC Licensing Manager Fernando Villasboa also clarified that Paraguay don’t have any issue against any player from Argentina and took this decision just for their team’s benefit in the upcoming clash.
“We have already warned that in the local sectors, we will not allow access to jerseys that are not from Paraguay, or perhaps neutral ones, but not from the rival. Jerseys from clubs that contain the names of rival team players will be allowed. This is not an issue against any player; we have great respect for the careers of all footballers. It’s just that home advantage is essential for us,” Villasboa was quoted as saying by Sportskeeda.