Brighton midfielder Diego Gomez was given a hero’s welcome in Paraguay after returning home from his World Cup campaign.
Supporters lined the streets in San Juan Bautista as Gomez was driven through his home town in an open-top car under police escort.
The 23-year-old leaned out to exchange high-fives with fans, many of them children, as the crowd chanted his name.
Gomez grew up in San Juan Bautista, a town in southern Paraguay known for agriculture and cattle ranching. Its population is around 21,000, which made the scale of the reception even more striking.
His World Cup ended in painful fashion against France. Gomez produced a strong performance but conceded the decisive penalty, which Kylian Mbappe converted.
ReadBrighton covered how Gomez’s penalty error ended Paraguay’s World Cup campaign after their last-16 defeat. The response back home showed how highly he is still regarded.
Gomez Thanks Paraguay Supporters
Gomez’s tournament had difficult moments, but Paraguay still reached the last 16 and beat Germany along the way.
Speaking after his return, Gomez said: “Obviously it’s a very beautiful feeling to compete in a World Cup.
“It is also a very big pressure to represent our country.
“Obviously I’m sad as well because of what happened but there are lots of things to come and I have to get my head up and live my life like always.”
Gomez was surrounded by supporters as he spoke. Many were wrapped in Paraguay colours and braving winter conditions to welcome him home.
Asked about the reception, he added: “It’s a great feeling how the people welcome you back.”
For Brighton, the next step is simple. Gomez will now take a break before reporting back for pre-season under Fabian Hurzeler.
Albion will want him refreshed after an emotional tournament. His World Cup brought pressure, disappointment and clear evidence of his importance to Paraguay.
The welcome in San Juan Bautista offered a warmer ending to a difficult few days. It also showed the standing Gomez now has in his home country.
