Both Paraguay and Brazil look for their first win of the 2024 Copa América when they meet in a Group D contest at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium.
By Jon Arnold
That’s definitely a bigger surprise for Brazil, tipped by many as favorites to win a 10th Copa América crown, than for Paraguay. But the Seleção was held to a scoreless draw by a pesky Costa Rica team that limited opportunities, flustered Brazil’s biggest stars and earned a point.
Yet, even as fans have called for modifications, including the insertion of teenage striker sensation Endrick, Brazil manager Dorival Júnior looks unlikely to make changes – sticking not only with Raphinha in attack but also maintaining a scheme with both João Gomes and Bruno Guimarães in the midfield.
Those two midfielders played 83 minutes together against Costa Rica, with Dorival Júnior taking criticism for sticking with a balanced squad against a Ticos team that showed little interest in pushing forward for any sort of attack. The manager also was questioned for taking off Vinícius Júnior in the 71st minute as the squad continued to look for a goal, though many noted the Real Madrid mega-star’s international scoring record of three goals in 31 caps doesn’t exactly demand he stay on the field when the squad needs a goal.
Paraguay came into the tournament with their own issues scoring goals but were at least able to get one in a 2-1 loss to Colombia, though it came as they were chasing a 2-0 deficit. Still, it was a positive moment for the Albirroja, with promising 20-year-old forward Julio Enciso scoring what they hope will be the first of many goals in his international career.
During World Cup qualification, it has been evident the Paraguay attack needs to find a punch beyond simply the creativity of Newcastle United’s Miguel Almirón with the Colombia loss extending their streak of scoring one goal or fewer to nine consecutive matches.
Costa Rica may have set out the blueprint for underdogs against Brazil, but whether or not Paraguay’s back line (which has a strong anchor in veteran Fabián Balbuena and could get more experience from Gustavo Gómez who stayed on the bench in the opener) will be able to once again fluster, frustrate and deny a talented Brazil team the goals they seek.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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