Paraguay forward Julio Enciso faces an anxious wait over his fitness ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, after being stretchered off during a 4-0 friendly victory against Nicaragua.

The 22-year-old was visibly distressed as he left the pitch in the 25th minute of what was Paraguay's final warm-up fixture before the tournament begins. His country's opening match arrives on Saturday against hosts the USA in Los Angeles.

Alfaro hopeful of recovery

Paraguay manager Gustavo Alfaro expressed hope that the injury would not prove serious, urging his medical staff to get Enciso back to full fitness as quickly as possible.