Paraguay's Diego Gomez off with injury 55 days before World Cup opener vs. USMNT

Gomez received medical attention before being replaced Ben Stansall / AFP via Getty Images Share articleBrighton & Hove Albion and Paraguay midfielder Diego Gomez left the field in tears after sustaining a first-half injury against Tottenham Hotspur, 55 days before his country’s World Cup opener against co-hosts the United States. Gomez, 23, was replaced in the 21st minute of Saturday’s Premier League fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after appearing to sustain a left leg injury. The Paraguay international picked up the problem after landing awkwardly following an aerial challenge with Spurs full-back Destiny Udogie in the 18th minute. Gomez landed heavily on his left leg and his knee appeared to buckle. He immediately looked in visible pain, pulling his shirt over his face and putting his hands on his head. He received treatment on the pitch and walked off the field, being replaced by winger Kaoru Mitoma. Gomez has made 34 appearances in all competitions this season, providing 10 goals and one assist and being utilised across the midfield and in forward areas. He joined the club from Inter Miami in January 2025 and has established himself as a first-team regular this term. He has been capped 23 times at international level by Paraguay following his senior debut in 2022, and started March’s friendlies against Greece and Morocco, scoring against the former. Paraguay begin their 2026 World Cup group stage campaign against the USMNT at SoFi Stadium on June 12. They then play Australia and Turkey, and are the lowest ranked team in Group D. Spot the pattern. Connect the terms Find the hidden link between sports terms Ali Rampling is a Deputy Managing Editor at The Athletic. Prior to joining The Athletic, she worked as the Women's Football Editor at 90min. Ali attended Loughborough University, and originates from Ipswich. Follow Ali on Twitter @AliRampling