Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill: From selling kit to World Cup hero

Orlando Gill continued his remarkable journey from obscurity as he became Paraguay's penalty shootout hero against Germany on Monday. The 6ft 6in goalkeeper saved two spot-kicks to secure his country's second knockout win in World Cup history and enhance his growing reputation.

From obscurity to World Cup stardom

The 26-year-old has been one of the best keepers at the World Cup but had only made three senior club appearances until January 2025. And less than four years ago, after his son was born prematurely, he had to sell his kit to support his family as they 'had nothing'.

Gill played for the youth teams of Paraguayan clubs Club 13 de Junio and CS San Lorenzo, and was named in Paraguay's squad for the South American Under-20 Championship in early 2019. He made his senior debut for San Lorenzo in September 2020 but had registered just two appearances when his wife Melissa Avalos, who he married in January 2021, became pregnant in 2022.

A traumatic birth and financial hardship

Their son was expected on 31 December but health problems meant that Melissa was hospitalised on 30 November and induced on 7 December. However, baby Lautaro was not delivered until the next day because of serious complications which left Melissa needing emergency surgery and her son in intensive care.

The family was able to go home in time for Christmas but 'had nothing, and Orlando was selling his club gear to cover expenses', Melissa posted on Instagram last year. 'Our son fought for his life, and his dad was always there. He gave everything, he sold everything: his clothes, his sneakers, even his U20 national team jersey, which he couldn't keep as a memory.'

Gill makes most of Argentina move

About a year after his son's birth, and having still only played two first-team games, Gill was handed what has proved to be a life-changing opportunity. Argentine top-flight side San Lorenzo took a gamble on Gill, signing him initially on loan. He ended 2024 playing in their reserves and became a first-team regular in 2025, attracting the attention of Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro.

After being called up in March and June, and with Paraguay having already secured a World Cup spot, Gill was handed his senior international debut in their final qualifier against Peru last September. He went on to play in five friendlies, earning the role of first-choice keeper heading into the World Cup, which began with a 4-1 defeat by co-hosts the United States.

However, Gill has since conceded just one goal in three games, including extra-time against Germany, saving 16 of the 17 shots that have been on target. And although he was perhaps fortunate to be awarded a free-kick in the last-32 tie, which denied Germany a second goal, Gill made two fine saves in the shootout to earn Fifa's player of the match award.

Dedication to family

Gill dedicated the award to his family, in particular his nephew Alexander, who he revealed is currently in hospital back home. After seeing his son survive a traumatic birth, Gill is now trying to give his nephew the strength to keep fighting as he and Paraguay continue their unlikely journey at the World Cup.

'Alexander, this trophy is for you,' said Gill. 'I hope you get better soon. Your godfather is supporting you from a distance.'