Paraguay U16 Dominate Bolivia U16 in International Friendly

Paraguay’s Under‑16 side turned in a commanding performance on 4 June 2026, sweeping past Bolivia’s U16 team 3‑0 in an international friendly. The match, played at a neutral venue, saw the Paraguayan youngsters control proceedings from the opening whistle, demonstrating superior passing, pressing and finishing to secure a convincing victory.

First‑Half Dominance

Paraguay established their rhythm early, pinning Bolivia back with quick combinations through midfield. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when a well‑worked corner kick found the head of central defender Luis Cabrera, who powered the ball past the Bolivian keeper to make it 1‑0. The goal settled any early nerves, and Paraguay continued to create chances. Just before the half‑hour mark, a clever through ball from attacking midfielder Jorge Rivas split the Bolivian defense, allowing striker Diego Acosta to slot home a composed finish for 2‑0.

Bolivia struggled to contain Paraguay’s movement, with the home side’s full‑backs pushing high and their wingers cutting inside. The Paraguayan midfield trio of Rivas, Carlos Benítez and Mario Fernández controlled possession, rarely allowing Bolivia to build any sustained attacks.

Second‑Half Control

After the interval, Paraguay’s intensity dipped slightly, but they remained the dominant side. Bolivia’s defensive shape held firm for much of the second half, but Paraguay’s pressure eventually told again. In the 71st minute, substitute Ángel Torres capitalized on a defensive miscommunication, intercepting a back‑pass and coolly rounding the goalkeeper to make it 3‑0. The goal effectively sealed the result, and both coaches used the remaining time to give playing minutes to their entire benches.

Paraguay’s defense, marshaled by Cabrera and Pedro Martínez, kept a clean sheet with goalkeeper Andrés Vargas making only two routine saves. Bolivia’s best chance came early in the second half when striker Juan José Mamani saw his close‑range effort saved by Vargas’ reflexes.

Standout Performers

• Diego Acosta (Paraguay) – A constant threat with his pace and movement, capped by a well‑taken goal.
• Luis Cabrera (Paraguay) – Solid at the back and dangerous from set pieces, opening the scoring.
• Jorge Rivas (Paraguay) – Pulled the strings in midfield, providing the assist for the second goal and dictating the tempo.
• Ángel Torres (Paraguay) – Came off the bench to add the third with a composed finish.

Conclusion

This friendly was a valuable test for both U16 sides as they prepare for upcoming South American qualifiers. Paraguay displayed impressive tactical discipline and individual quality, while Bolivia will take lessons from their defensive organization despite the scoreline. The result extends Paraguay’s recent positive run in youth internationals and will give the coaching staff plenty to build on.