Facing criticism after Paraguay's 4-1 loss to US in FIFA World Cup 2026, coach Gustavo Alfaro told the media, "Criticise me. You can shoot at me...but not at them [players]." "Protect them. ​You know why? Because when...World Cup is over, I'll be gone...but ⁠they'll stay," Alfaro added. "I'm going to chin up and take ​all of your punches," he stated.