Paraguay (W) U16 2–1 Chile (W) U16 | International Friendly
3 June 2026, 19:00 local time

Paraguay’s Under-16 women’s national team edged past their Chilean counterparts with a hard-fought 2–1 victory in an international friendly played on Thursday evening. The match, held behind closed doors at a training complex in Asunción, served as valuable preparation for both sides ahead of their respective South American qualifying campaigns later this year.

Match Overview

The young Albirroja dominated possession from the opening whistle, pressing high and forcing Chile into early defensive errors. Paraguay’s opening goal came in the 18th minute when a swift counter‑attack culminated in a low cross from the right flank that was turned home by striker Ana María Vera. Chile responded well, equalising just before half‑time through a well‑struck free kick from midfielder Catalina Pardo that curled over the wall and dipped under the crossbar.

Second‑Half Decider

Paraguay re‑established control after the interval, with head coach Luis Fernández introducing fresh legs to maintain intensity. The winning goal arrived in the 67th minute when right‑back Luz Benítez overlapped and delivered a precise cross that defender María González headed powerfully past the Chilean goalkeeper. Chile pushed for an equaliser in the final quarter‑hour, but Paraguay’s defensive line held firm, earning a morale‑boosting result.

Key Performers

• Ana María Vera (Paraguay) – Constant threat with her pace and movement; opened the scoring.
• Catalina Pardo (Chile) – Composed midfield display capped by a stunning free‑kick equaliser.
• Luz Benítez (Paraguay) – Energetic down the right flank, providing the assist for the winner.

Match Impact

For Paraguay’s U16 women, this result extends their unbeaten run in friendlies to three matches, building momentum ahead of the South American U17 Women’s Championship qualifying cycle. Chile, meanwhile, will take heart from their resilient performance and will look to sharpen their finishing in upcoming training fixtures. Both federations view these friendly encounters as essential for player development and international exposure at the youth level.