In the framework of the qualifications for the World Cup, the national team of Paraguay is hosting its Argentine counterpart on Thursday. The match is considered a classic rivalry, and for this reason, the Paraguayan Football Association decided to add a new incentive for this encounter.
The president of the association, Fernando Villasuso, stated that any fan who shows up at the stadium wearing Lionel Messi's jersey will be considered a special guest. This rule applies to jerseys of the Argentine national team, Barcelona, as well as Inter Miami.
The aim is to decorate the stands in the national red-and-white colors and create a truly Paraguayan atmosphere to support the local players. Villasuso proudly announced over the radio: "We are all partners of this game, each in their own way".
Similar instructions had already been implemented in the previous match where Paraguay faced Brazil, where even Brazilian footballer Vinicius Junior was targeted. Fans had to leave their shirts at home or risk being barred from entering the club after halftime.
The official goal of this measure is to reduce tension and prevent fights, and it seems that this policy has justified itself, since Paraguay managed to secure a 1-0 victory. At this moment in the struggle for a place in the 2026 World Cup, the Argentine team occupies the first place with 22 points, while Paraguay is in sixth place with 13 points, competing for a direct qualification.
