The Federación Mexicana de Futbol and Soccer United Marketing have set the stage for a high-stakes international friendly: Mexico vs. Paraguay will kick off at San Antonio Alamodome on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. CST. This isn’t just another tune-up—it’s Mexico’s final U.S. match before hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Paraguay’s last serious test against Concacaf opposition before joining them on home soil. The match marks the 120th game in the 22-year history of MexTour, and the sixth time Mexico has played at the Alamodome since 2003. Fans won’t want to miss this: tickets go on sale Monday, September 22, 2025, at 10 a.m. CST via SomosLocales.com.
Why This Match Matters More Than Most Friendlies
International friendlies often feel like exhibitions, but this one carries real weight. Mexico comes in as reigning Concacaf Nations League and Gold Cup champion, yet their 0-0 draw against Uruguay on November 15 in Torreón exposed cracks in their attack. The team looked solid defensively but struggled to break down a compact defense—something Paraguay will exploit. Meanwhile, Paraguay, fresh off qualifying for the 2026 World Cup after a tense playoff against Colombia, is hungry to prove they belong among the continent’s elite. They’ve won just one of their last five matches, but their physicality and counterpunching style make them dangerous.
“Mexico looks better when they don’t have the ball,” said Fox Deportes analyst Mariano after the Uruguay match. “When they go and press, they’re organized. But they still need to figure out how to attack teams like Uruguay.” That’s the question hanging over the team: Can they turn pressure into goals? And can Paraguay, who beat Mexico 1-0 in Atlanta in 2022, do it again?
History Favors Mexico—But Not Always
The historical record between these two sides tells a clear story: Mexico leads 11-5-5 in 21 meetings, with 37 goals to Paraguay’s 17. But history doesn’t win games—performance does. The last time these teams met, in August 2022, Paraguay stunned Mexico with a lone goal from Richard Sánchez. Before that, Mexico had won three straight: a 4-2 thrashing in 2019, a 2-1 win in 2017, and a 1-0 victory in 2016. The 2015 draw in the Pan American Games remains a rare stalemate.
What’s different this time? The stakes. Both teams are preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they’ll be in the same region—Mexico in Group A with Canada and Poland, Paraguay in Group F with Brazil and Portugal. This match is a dress rehearsal for the intensity of World Cup play. And with the Alamodome expected to draw over 50,000 fans, the atmosphere will be electric.
Who’s Playing? Key Names to Watch
Mexico’s squad against Uruguay gave a glimpse of what to expect. Goalkeeper Ángel Malagón held firm, while defenders César Montes and Johan Vásquez anchored the backline. Up front, Raúl Jiménez (4 apps, 1 goal) and Santiago Giménez (6 apps, 2 goals) are the main threats. But Jiménez, 33, is battling fitness concerns, and Giménez has yet to score in his last three appearances.
For Paraguay, the engine is Miguel Almirón (Newcastle United), whose pace and vision could exploit Mexico’s high defensive line. Midfielder Diego Gómez (1 goal in 2 matches) and forward Ángel Vega (6 matches, 1 assist) add balance. If Paraguay’s defense can contain Mexico’s transitions, they’ll have a real shot.
The Alamodome: A Second Home for El Tri
San Antonio has become a de facto home away from home for Mexico. Since 2003, the Alamodome has hosted five previous MexTour matches, including a 2-1 win over Argentina in 2019. The venue’s intimate size—53,000 seats—creates a raucous, intimate atmosphere rarely found in larger stadiums. Unlike the cold, echoing halls of Chicago or the sprawling fields of Los Angeles, the Alamodome feels like a Mexican fan club meeting. Expect chants of “¡México! ¡México!” to echo long after the final whistle.
“This is where we feel most connected to our fans in the U.S.,” said FMF President Yon de Luisa in a statement. “The energy here is unmatched. We’re not just playing a game—we’re building momentum for the World Cup.”
What Comes Next?
After this match, Mexico will head into the final stretch of World Cup prep with two more friendlies in December—against Costa Rica and Brazil. Paraguay, meanwhile, will face Chile in October and then play a high-profile match against Japan in November. Both teams will use the Alamodome clash to finalize lineups, test tactical setups, and assess fitness ahead of the World Cup.
One thing’s certain: this isn’t just about bragging rights. It’s about confidence. For Mexico, proving they can score against disciplined South American sides. For Paraguay, showing they’re no longer underdogs but contenders. The clock is ticking. And on November 18, the Alamodome will be the stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this match impact Mexico’s World Cup preparation?
This match is Mexico’s final test against a South American opponent before the 2026 World Cup. After struggling to break down Uruguay’s defense, facing Paraguay—a team known for physical, counterattacking play—will reveal whether Mexico’s attack can adapt under pressure. The Alamodome’s crowd will also test their mental toughness in hostile, non-home conditions.
Why is the Alamodome significant for Mexico’s international matches?
The Alamodome has hosted five previous MexTour matches since 2003, with Mexico winning four of them. Its compact size, proximity to the Mexican border, and large Tex-Mex fan base create an atmosphere closer to a home game than any other U.S. venue. FMF considers it a strategic location to maintain fan engagement and build momentum ahead of hosting the 2026 World Cup.
What’s the historical edge between Mexico and Paraguay?
Mexico leads the all-time series 11-5-5 in 21 meetings, with 37 goals to Paraguay’s 17. But Paraguay has won the last two encounters: 1-0 in Atlanta (2022) and 2-1 in Asunción (2014). Their most recent win came when Mexico fielded a reserve squad. This time, both teams are at full strength, making the result harder to predict.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
For Mexico, Santiago Giménez and Raúl Jiménez are the main scoring threats, though both have been quiet lately. Johan Vásquez’s defensive work will be critical. For Paraguay, Miguel Almirón’s dribbling and Diego Gómez’s midfield control could unlock Mexico’s high line. Ángel Vega’s pace on the wing could be decisive if Paraguay plays on the counter.
When do tickets go on sale, and where can fans buy them?
Tickets for Mexico vs. Paraguay go on sale Monday, September 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. CST exclusively through SomosLocales.com. Prices range from $25 for upper-level seats to $150 for premium pitch-side views. FMF and SUM expect the match to sell out within 72 hours, as previous Alamodome matches have done.
How does this match fit into the broader 2026 World Cup context?
With the World Cup set for June–July 2026 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, this match serves as a litmus test for both teams’ readiness. Mexico, as co-host, needs to show it can compete with top-tier South American sides. Paraguay, aiming to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since 2010, must prove it can handle the pressure of big-stage football. The result could influence seeding and confidence heading into next year’s tournament.
