In a moment filled with deep emotion, Paraguay’s football star Julio Enciso dedicated his team’s significant World Cup victory to his late grandfather following their surprising win against Germany on June 29, 2026. Enciso, who scored the decisive goal in the Round of 32 match, expressed his heartfelt sentiments in an interview shortly after the conclusion of the game.
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The match showcased Paraguay’s remarkable resilience, culminating in a historic 4-3 penalty shootout win that allowed them to advance to the Round of 16. Enciso reminisced about the special bond he shared with his grandfather, recalling how they used to watch their national team play together during his childhood. “I remember sitting next to my grandpa. I dedicate this to him. I’m sure he would be proud of me,” he told reporters, tears in his eyes, as seen in footage broadcast by Fox Sports.
Reflecting on the emotional weight of the victory, Enciso stated, “I can only think of memories of him.” His affectionate tribute extended to the win itself, which he described as “a gift from God and him.” For Enciso, this triumph was not just a personal achievement but a collective celebration for the nation of Paraguay. “This is the best day of my life,” he enthused, expressing his desire for the joy to resonate with his fellow citizens.
In addition to his emotional dedication, Enciso took time to acknowledge the efforts of his teammates, emphasising the camaraderie within the squad. “Honestly, it’s incredible. I had to sub off the game, but they kept going, and that reflected how strong of a group we are,” he noted. This team spirit was evident throughout the match and has been a hallmark of Paraguay’s performance in the tournament thus far.
Enciso’s post-match comments not only highlighted his individual journey but also conveyed the unity and determination present within the squad. The 19-year-old’s comments resonated with fans, who took to social media to express their admiration, with one fan remarking, “What a player, what a match. World Cup moments like this!”
The emotional responses did not end with the interview. Following the match, Enciso shared a heartwarming moment with his wife, Melissa Cardona, as they celebrated his victory together. He rushed to embrace her in the stands, where they exchanged a kiss filled with joy and triumph. Cardona, an influencer, subsequently shared glimpses of their celebration on her Instagram Story, highlighting the significance of the moment for both of them.
The couple, who married in May 2025 at Enciso’s family home in Caaguazú, Paraguay, seemed to share in the victory’s emotional weight, with the match providing a backdrop to their love story amidst the excitement of international football.
As Paraguay prepares to face either France or Sweden in the upcoming Round of 16, Enciso’s emotional dedication and the team’s determination could serve as a source of inspiration as they seek to continue their historic World Cup run. The match is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia on July 4, 2026, and there is a palpable sense of anticipation within the squad and among their supporters.
With this win, Enciso not only secured a place in football history, but he also honoured the memory of a loved one, allowing fans to witness the deep connections that underpin the sport. As Paraguay marches on in the tournament, the stories of its players and the communities that rally behind them continue to capture the heartfelt essence of the World Cup experience.