After that World Cup showdown in 2002, decided by a tight 1-0 in favor of the Europeans, this rivalry returns with two completely opposite football philosophies. The four-time world champions arrive with a game plan built on high pressing, quick passing and ruthless efficiency in both boxes. On the other side, the classic South American school of grit and discipline comes to life in La Albirroja: a compact unit, aggressive defending and direct, no-nonsense attacks.
That previous encounter already proved that Paraguay can go toe-to-toe with the giants. Now, in a group stage where every point is gold, the German side is under pressure to assert their status, while the Guaraní team fights for every 50-50 ball to move closer to a round of 16 spot they narrowly missed in 2010.
With four titles and multiple finals behind them, Die Mannschaft also carry the weight of bouncing back after two straight group-stage exits, led by the brilliance of Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and the leadership of Joshua Kimmich. The Guaraní side, a regular at World Cups and a quarter-finalist in 2010, leans on the experience of Gustavo Gómez at the back and the creativity of Miguel Almirón between the lines.
This Europe vs South America showdown has all the ingredients of a tense, physical and technically gifted battle: secure your tickets and experience live a clash that could shape the entire group.