- Aims to return to the World Cup after missing the last edition.
- Dreams of winning the CONMEBOL Copa América Fútbol Playa™ again.
Valentín Benítez started playing beach soccer in 2017 after coming through the youth ranks at General Díaz. His rise was swift: he played for Paraguay’s U-20 team in 2018 and, since 2019, has been a key player in the squad that won the CONMEBOL Copa América Fútbol Playa™ in 2022.
– Is your goal to finish in the top 3?
-Our main objective is to win the Copa América again, to be champions like we were back then."
– Was it tough missing out on the last World Cup?
-Honestly, yes. It hurt; it was hard to accept being left out after qualifying for five consecutive World Cups. Watching it on TV was tough.
– You previously had the chance to play in a World Cup (2019 and 2021). What makes it so special?
It’s incredible—it's the biggest stage in football.
– How do you assess the group you’ve been drawn into?
It’s the group of death, haha. We’ve got Brazil, Argentina (the last two finalists), Venezuela, and Peru.
– How did you get into beach soccer?
-Through a friend. I got an invitation to check out the sport in Paraguay. I liked it, started asking around about how to get involved, and little by little, I got my chance. I joined the U-20 team in 2018.
– What would you say is the best thing about the Pynandi?
-Paraguay’s national team has built a strong reputation worldwide. We have several strengths—we’re incredibly determined, and we have an amazing group. I'm very aware of what we lost in the last Copa América.
Paraguay will play the tournament's opening match, debuting on February 22 at 11:30 AM against Venezuela in Group B.
