Paraguay has 'nothing to lose' against Brazil: Alfaro

Paraguay manager Gustavo Alfaro said Sunday that his side will approach its crucial World Cup qualifier against Brazil with the belief that a place on the sport's grandest stage is within reach.

Paraguay, which last featured at the World Cup in 2010, is third in the 10-team South American group with 24 points, two ahead of fourth-placed Brazil.

The top six teams will qualify directly for next year's showpiece in the United States, Mexico and Canada while the seventh-ranked side will earn a playoff spot.

"These are the kinds of matches in which we have everything to win and nothing to lose," Alfaro said ahead of Tuesday's clash at Corinthians Arena in Sao Paulo.

"Brazil is always a difficult opponent but at the same time we know that if we win we could get the outcome that we've been striving for. It's a dream that has been put on hold for 15 years," he added.

Paraguay is unbeaten in nine games since Alfaro replaced Daniel Garnero as manager last August.

While accepting that Brazil would pose a stern test under new head coach Carlo Ancelotti, the Argentine expressed confidence that his team had the mindset to overcome the five-time world champions.

"I have no doubt that our attitude is what stands us apart and that we can maintain the same determined approach in every game we play," he said.