Paraguay's Julio Enciso Leaves Match in Tears Ahead of World Cup Opener

Paraguayan winger Julio Enciso was visibly distressed as he was carried off the field during a friendly against Nicaragua on Friday, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming World Cup. With just one week to go until Paraguay faces the U.S. men's national team in Los Angeles, fans are anxious about the impact of this injury.

Although Paraguay secured a convincing 4-0 victory in Asunción, the match was overshadowed by Enciso's injury. In the 24th minute, he appeared to struggle while trying to receive a pass, ultimately limping off before collapsing. The atmosphere turned somber as the crowd watched the 22-year-old being taken away on a stretcher.

Returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, Paraguay is set to compete in Group D alongside the USMNT, Australia, and Turkey. Enciso plays a crucial role in the team’s offense, known for his creativity in a squad not typically recognized for its scoring prowess. He has earned 32 caps for Paraguay, netting four goals.

In his club career, Enciso recently wrapped up his first season with Strasbourg in France, where he scored 12 goals across all competitions, after previously spending three seasons in the Premier League with Brighton and Ipswich.