<p>Paraguay ‌face co-hosts the United States in their opening ‌Group D match on Friday, marking the South Americans' first World ‌Cup appearance since 2010.</p><p><strong>"In my view, they have already ‌won,"</strong> Alfaro said of his players at a pre-match news conference on the eve of the game.</p><p><strong>"After 16 years, they qualified when ‌it seemed impossible, when there was no ⁠hope."</strong></p><p>The Argentine added that ‌the team had restored the connection with the fans: <strong>"They've recovered Paraguay's ​DNA."</strong></p><p>While acknowledging the emotion surrounding Paraguay's return, Alfaro stressed that his squad's ambitions extend beyond merely taking ​part.</p><p><strong>"We are not here just to be part of the World Cup," </strong>he said. <strong>"We're here to compete."</strong></p><p>Alfaro expected the ⁠opening test to be ​difficult, with the United States playing on home soil under coach Mauricio Pochettino.</p><p>"Of course, it is complex to face one of the hosts," Alfaro said, pointing to the quality of ‌their opponents' European-based players.</p><p>Paraguay would need to show concentration and discipline, he added, especially against a US side who were dangerous from set pieces.</p><p>Paraguay also received encouraging signs regarding the fitness of Strasbourg winger Julio Enciso, who is recovering from an injury suffered shortly before the tournament.</p><p><strong>"Julio is doing very well,"</strong> Alfaro said, adding that he had followed the required steps in his recovery and would continue ‌to be assessed before a decision is made on his ​availability.</p><p>Alfaro said the squad, and the country, wanted Enciso ‌to be ready, and suggested he would start if fit.</p><p>As anticipation builds ahead of Paraguay's long-awaited return to the World Cup, Alfaro said he had urged his players to stay calm as they counted down the ⁠final hours before kick-off.</p><p><strong>"We ⁠waited 16 years,"</strong> he ‌said. <strong>"We can wait one more day."</strong></p><p><strong>Follow USA vs Paraguay with Flashscore</strong></p>