11 Most Popular Soccer Players from Paraguay

Who leads the ranks among the most popular soccer players from Paraguay?

From the local leagues to international tournaments, which Paraguayan stars shine the brightest?

Uncover the most prominent athletes hailing from Paraguay and explore their impact on the beautiful game.

Also, check out this article for a broader look at the most popular athletes from Paraguay.

Most popular soccer players from Paraguay:

Roque Santa Cruz
José Luis Chilavert
Salvador Cabañas
Oscar Cardozo
Paulo Da Silva
Justo Villar
Nelson Haedo Valdez
Cristian Riveros
Lucas Barrios
Édgar Benítez
Richard Ortiz

Table of Contents

#1 Roque Santa Cruz
#2 José Luis Chilavert
#3 Salvador Cabañas
#4 Oscar Cardozo
#5 Paulo Da Silva
#6 Justo Villar
#7 Nelson Haedo Valdez
#8 Cristian Riveros
#9 Lucas Barrios
#10 Édgar Benítez
#11 Richard Ortiz
FAQ

#1 Roque Santa Cruz

🎂 Born in: 1981
🥇 Biggest Achievement: Win the UEFA Champions League with Bayern Munich

Roque Santa Cruz, a prolific Paraguayan forward, has made a significant impact in both domestic and international soccer. His skill and goal-scoring ability saw him play for clubs like Bayern Munich and Manchester City.

His dedication to developing soccer in Paraguay has also made him a highly respected figure off the field.

#2 José Luis Chilavert

🎂 Born in: 1965
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 3-time IFFHS World’s Best Goalkeeper

José Luis Chilavert, known as one of the best goalkeepers in soccer history, has left a lasting impression on the sport. His excellent shot-stopping abilities, coupled with his unique goal-scoring talent, made him stand out among his peers.

Chilavert’s on-field leadership and commitment to charity work off the field have made him an icon in Paraguay.

#3 Salvador Cabañas

🎂 Born in: 1980
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2007 Copa América top goal scorer

Salvador Cabañas, a talented Paraguayan striker, took the soccer world by storm with his exceptional goal-scoring ability. He played for various clubs, most notably Club América in Mexico, where he became a fan favorite.

His determination and strength inspired soccer players and fans alike in Paraguay and beyond.

#4 Oscar Cardozo

🎂 Born in: 1983
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2009/10 UEFA Europa League top goal scorer

Oscar Cardozo, a powerful and skillful forward, has made a significant contribution to Paraguayan soccer. His consistent goal-scoring performances for S.L. Benfica and Trabzonspor, along with the Paraguay national team, have earned him global recognition.

His dedication to soccer has cemented him as a role model for up-and-coming Paraguayan players.

#5 Paulo Da Silva

🎂 Born in: 1980
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 3-time Paraguayan Primera División champion with Club Cerro Porteño

Paulo Da Silva, an experienced center-back, has been a beacon of stability in the Paraguayan national team and various clubs he has played for. His leadership skills and defensive prowess make him an integral part of the Paraguayan soccer landscape.

Da Silva’s tenacity and commitment have served as an inspiration to young defenders in Paraguay.

#6 Justo Villar

🎂 Born in: 1977
🥇 Biggest Achievement: Awarded the Best Goalkeeper Award in Copa América 2011

Justo Villar, another legendary Paraguayan goalkeeper, has enjoyed a long and successful career both domestically and on the international stage. His shot-stopping abilities and on-field leadership have made him a vital component of the Paraguayan national team for many years.

Villar’s dedication and professionalism have made him a respected figure in Paraguayan soccer.

#7 Nelson Haedo Valdez

🎂 Born in: 1983
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2005 Bundesliga champion with Werder Bremen

Nelson Haedo Valdez, a versatile Paraguayan forward, has made a lasting impact on both domestic and international soccer during his career. Playing for an array of European clubs, Valdez’s tenacity and goal-scoring ability have made him a valuable asset.

His unwavering commitment to soccer has made him an inspiration to young Paraguayan players.

#8 Cristian Riveros

🎂 Born in: 1982
🥇 Biggest Achievement: Copa Libertadores runner-up with Club Olimpia in 2013

Cristian Riveros, an experienced Paraguayan central midfielder, has impacted the sport with his vision, intelligence, and leadership skills. His performances with Club Olimpia, Sunderland, and the Paraguay national team have solidified his reputation as a reliable midfielder.

Riveros’s dedication and consistency make him a role model for aspiring players in Paraguay.

#9 Lucas Barrios

🎂 Born in: 1984
🥇 Biggest Achievement: Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal double with Borussia Dortmund in 2011

Lucas Barrios, a talented forward, has made a name for himself in both domestic and international soccer. His goal-scoring exploits for Borussia Dortmund and various other clubs, as well as the Paraguay national team, have earned him considerable respect.

Barrios’s ability to find the net and lead the attack make him a valuable asset to Paraguayan soccer.

#10 Édgar Benítez

🎂 Born in: 1987
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 4-time Liga MX champion with Club Toluca

Édgar Benítez, a speedy forward, has made a significant contribution to the Paraguay national team and the clubs he has played for. His quick dribbling skills and eye for goals have earned him a place in the hearts of soccer fans in Paraguay and abroad.

Benítez’s drive and determination make him a sought-after Paraguayan talent in the sport.

#11 Richard Ortiz

🎂 Born in: 1990
🥇 Biggest Achievement: 2-time Paraguayan Primera División champion with Club Olimpia

Richard Ortiz, an all-round defensive midfielder, has become a key player for both the Paraguay national team and his club sides. His tackling, passing, and ability to contribute to the attack have established him as a vital presence on the field.

Ortiz’s hard work and dedication to the sport make him an example for emerging Paraguayan soccer stars.