Paraguay national team boss Gustavo Alfaro has expressed his gratitude to Ecuadorian football as he prepares to face his former team in South America's World Cup qualifiers.

The 62-year-old Argentine, who took charge of Paraguay in August, was Ecuador's manager from 2020 to 2023 and oversaw the team's qualification for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

"Ecuador is a country that I love, I have enormous appreciation for the beautiful things I experienced," Alfaro said ahead of Thursday's clash in Quito.

"The relationship that I still have with the players is wonderful. I have received several messages from them. They have been part of a very happy moment in my life."

Ecuador are currently fourth in the 10-team South American zone standings with 11 points from eight qualifiers, seven points behind leaders Argentina. Paraguay are seventh, two points further back.

"Being able to come here again is a great feeling," Alfaro said. "I am very grateful to Ecuadorian football, towards the players and everyone. It's a pleasure to be here."

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