Sudamericano 2013: Paraguay suffer heartache in Chile thriller

Chile vs Paraguay
Estadio Malvinas Argentinas, Mendoza
(2-1) 3-2 – Rojas, Maturana, Contrera; Gonzalez, Alborno

It was five-goal tragedy for Paraguay in the end, in a pulsating match that had everything (except tactical awareness). Paraguay took the lead early on after good pressing from Montenegro and Dominguez, strength and awareness from Jorge Rojas and clever positioning from Derlis Gonzalez who as ever was on hand to turn the ball in.

Rodrigo Alborno equalises – Photo: ABC

Chile turned the game round before halftime with two goals – firstly their Rojas was given just a little bit too much sapce from Ivan Ramirez (who looked fatigued after a wonderful display against Argentina) and he jinked past captain Gustavo Gómez to fire in a good shot under the goalkeeper. The second goal was a result of several forays down Paraguay’s left hand side that was unguarded with Balbuena often pressing without the help of Montenegro and Matías Perez at centreback unable to sweep round.

We’ve seen plenty of spirit from this group of players and they showed it once again in the second half. As they continued to attack the game became incredibly stretched with almost no midfield to speak of. This helped Paraguay in the early part of the half, fresh legs and the pace of Derlis Gonzalez brought about the equaliser, a long ball bypassing everybody and finding Derlis Gonzalez one-on-one with his marker, he had enough vision and skill to slip in his ‘European’ teammate and substitute Rodrigo Alborno who finished expertly.

With the game so vertical there was always the feeling somebody would grab a winner – in the end it was Chile and unfortunately for Paraguay it was a defensive error with Juan Villamayor misplacing a simple pass in his own half. The Chileans put together a neat move which and Contreras showed a cool head to slip the ball past Morel in goal. The result means Paraguay must win against Bolivia in their final game tomorrow (Thursday 17th) to progress to the Hexagonal Final.

Paraguay XI: Diego Morel; Teodoro Paredes, Gustavo Gómez, Matías Perez; Jorge Rojas, Ivan Ramirez, Miguel Almirón, Manuel Balbuena; Derlis Gonzalez, Cecilio Dominguez, Bryan Montenegro

Subs: Rodrigo Alborno for Cecilio Dominguez, Angel Lucena for Ivan Ramirez, Juan Villamayor for Derlis Gonzalez

Sudamericano 2013: Chile vs Paraguay preview

Chile vs Paraguay
Estadio Malvinas Argentinas, Mendoza
15/01/2013, 20:00 (23:00 GMT)

Following Friday night’s heroics and Argentina failing to win at their third attempt, the albirrojita are on course to qualify for the final round. They face the already-qualified Chile who are missing two players through suspension having picked up four red cards so far in this tournament.

So far we have seen a 4-4-2 and a 3-4-3 from Paraguay but we are starting to get to know the key players in the side, Teodoro Paredes has played well both as right back and one of three centre backs while Derlis Gonzalez was critical in the victory over Argentina as was Cecilio Dominguez. The interest is in central midfield, Iván Ramirez put in a tremendous 90 minutes in the previous game in a classic defensive midfield performance shielding his back four, the introduction of Miguel Almirón in that zone in the 2nd half improved Paraguay’s passing immensely. We should see those two start tonight’s match, especially with news that Robert Piris da Motta suffered an injury in training and won’t be available for selection.

The Benfica striker has been key so far – Photo: D10.com.py

Chile have announced they will rest players for this game, they have already qualified for the final round so want to recuperate fully before the Hexagonal final starts on Sunday. The albirrojitos will be happy if they don’t have to defend against players like Nicolás Castillo of Universidad Católica who has scored two already. The suspension of Cristian Cuevas is also good news, the O’Higgins midfielder’s absence could allow more space for Almirón to find his strikers.

Paraguay XI (possible): Diego Morel; Teodoro Paredes, Matias Perez, Gustavo Gomez; Jorge Rojas, Iván Ramirez, Miguel Almirón, Manuel Balbuena; Derlis Gonzalez, Cecilio Dominguez, Bryan Montenegro

Prediction: Chile are already through, Paraguay will fancy their chances – 1-3 to the Paraguayans

 Author’s Note: I don’t understand why in so many publications Manuel Balbuena is named as Jorge Balbuena, maybe it is his first name but on his facebook account he is called ‘Manu Balbuena Carreras’

By Ralph Hannah

Copa Sudamericana 2012: Tacuary vs Cobreloa preview

Tacuary vs Cobreloa
Estadio Roberto Bettega
24/07/2012, 20.30 (01:30 BST)

The team that finished bottom of the Apertura table are in continental action for the first time since 2007 and will be desperate to try and spring a surprise against their Chilean opponents in the first leg of their first round tie. Tacuary have brought back striker Ramon Cardozo after a successful stint in Perú but it is their defence that will be key. Remember the preview to the other game tonight involving Olimpia is here. 

Tacuary look forward to their first continental game in 5 years – Photo: Futgol3D.radio970am.com.py

Gonzalo Ocampo usually prefers a 4-5-1 formation but is expected to go for a 4-4-2 to partner Cardozo with Jorge Ortega, also on the right-hand side of midfielder is Reinaldo Ocampo a talented winger. The defence’s key component is Carlos Servín, an outstanding young goalkeeper, and also includes ex-Liverpool central defender Ronald Huth. Expect Tacuary to be organised and attempt to score via a set piece or on the counter attack.

Cobreloa were unable to register all of their players in time for this game but still come with a strong team and with ex-Cerro Porteño, Nacional & Libertad coach Javier Torrente at the helm, Tacuary’s defensive style will pose no surprises. My gut feeling says this will be a fairly stale affair with Torrente happy to set his team up defensively to avoid getting hit on the break and waiting for the return leg in Calama where

Tacuary XI (probable): Carlos Servín; Gustavo Gimenez, Ronald Huth, Diego Viera, Gregor Aguayo; Reinaldo Ocampo, Juan Nuñez, Edgar Fernandez, Marcos Acosta Rojas; Jorge Ortega, Ramón Cardozo

Prediction: 0-0 or 1-1

Selected Odds: Tacuary win 2.44, Draw 3.25, Cobreloa win 3.35, 1-1 scoreline 7.0, Under 2.5 goals 1.72

Best Bet: I think Unders seems a pretty safe bet in this one

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Stats and Trivia

Tacuary’s first game against Chilean opposition

Tacuary last 5 home (All Competitions)

Pld 5 W 0 D 4 L 1 GF 3 GA 6

Tacuary results in Continental Competitions

Tacuary 1-1 Defensor Sporting – Copa Sudamericana 2007

Defensor Sporting 3-0 Tacuary – Copa Sudamericana 2007

Tacuary 2-2 Palmeiras – Copa Libertadores 2005

Palmeiras 2-0 Tacuary – Copa Libertadores 2005

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By Ralph Hannah

Author’s Note: All odds correct at the time of writing via Betfair

World Cup Qualifiers: Five things Chiqui Arce can take from Round 5

The fifth round of CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers have finished with Argentina moving to the top of the table having previously shared the lead with Uruguay and Venezuela. At the bottom Perú stay in penultimate position while Bolivia are in their habitual place propping up the table despite having played two games at home.

Chiqui Arce could use some pointers – Photo: Prensa Selección Paraguaya de Futbol

Chiqui Arce was, of course, watching Bolivia in La Paz on Saturday and sent Edgar Bogado to Montevideo to spy on Venezuela while Osvaldo Cohener was in Buenos Aires to watch Paraguay’s next but one opponents, Argentina. These are five things Paraguay can take from the recent round of games in South America.

1. Acclimatisation to altitude the right tactic

The plan to take the Paraguay squad to La Paz 3,640 metres above sea level to acclimatise to the altitude seems to have been justified by Chile’s win. Claudio Borghi didn’t take his team for as long as Chiqui Arce nor to La Paz, they were in Calama at 2,260 metres, but the away side seemed very comfortable in the Hernando Siles. The timing of Chile’s two goals proved they didn’t run out of steam in the thin air, finding the net in stoppage time at the end of the first half and seven minutes from the final whistle.

2. It is time for a Messi plan

When I interviewed Chiqui Arce in September last year before the qualifiers began I asked if he had a plan for the world’s best player Lionel Messi. The answer didn’t appear in the interview because he responded with a question “When do we even play Argentina?” Arce asked his head of press. After another destructive performance from ‘La Pulga’ in the albiceleste of Argentina running from deep time and again at Ecuador’s defence it is certainly something for Arce to mull over. Paraguay are Argentina’s next opponents in Córdoba on September 7th and while the Paraguayan coaching staff think about containing Messi they will want to try and stop him linking with Gonzalo Higuain, the pair have been in scintillating form.

3. Away points are vital

History suggests a team needs 25 points to qualify from the CONMEBOL group, make that 22 considering there are less games this time round. That means Paraguay will need to win their five remaining home games and pick up a win on the road. In the likelihood that they drop points at home (they still have to face Argentina and Chile) they really need two victories away from home. One of Paraguay’s direct rivals, Colombia, have already taken six points from six as the visiting side.

4. Venezuela: Don’t believe the hype

The vinotinto are on eight points after five games which puts them in the qualification zone but are they really going to be a threat? In the 2010 campaign they began in similar fashion, seven points from the first five, before losing four consecutive games to effectively end their chances. The game with Chile in Puerto Ordaz will be key and Paraguay will be keeping a close eye on the team they beat in the Copa América semi-finals who are their next adversaries in Asunción. There is no doubt Venezuela are a strong side but one the albirroja can overcome.

Rondon celebrates for Venezuela

5. Score the first goal

It may sound obvious but Bolivia really lost the plot once they fell behind to Chile, their coach Gustavo Quinteros has the side well-drilled but there seems to be a problem with mentality with the players representing the Andean nation. The second half saw a series of poor challenges aimed mostly at Chile’s Alexis Sanchez and the Bolivians finished the game with ten men. It isn’t only the negative effect the first goal will have on their opponents, as pointed out previously Paraguay have won 88% of games since June 2010 when they score first.

By Ralph Hannah

Copa Libertadores 2012: Uni. de Chile vs Libertad preview

Universidad de Chile vs Libertad
Estadio Nacional de Chile
24/05/2012, 21.30 (02.30 BST)

As expected the first leg was a tight and intriguing match in which Libertad took the lead early on only to be pegged back by the quality of Universidad de Chile and in particular Gustavo Lorenzetti. The 1-1 result means that Libertad must score in Santiago to have a chance of progressing, that will suit Sampaoli’s side who can sit back and try and hit the Paraguayans on the counter.

Libertad arrive in Santiago for the game – Photo: D10.com.py

Once again it will be fascinating to see what strategy Burruchaga decides on, earlier in the week Pablo Velázquez spoke of “scoring early and protecting the lead” which leads us to believe that it will be a similar pattern to the first leg. The Guma will come out all guns blazing and try and overpower their opponents in the first 20 minutes before sitting deep. In contrast, Rodolfo Gamarra indicated that the focus was on making the most of any goalscoring opportunities when they arise which is the talk of a counter-attack-side. The Asunción club showed last time they can create chances against La U and are able to stretch them by exploited the flanks but the difficulty will be stopping the Chileans from scoring. Last week Libertad were incredibly disciplined yet switched off for a split second which allowed Lorenzetti the space to work some magic, they simply can’t afford to put a foot wrong or they will be punished.

Angelo Henríquez got two at the weekend – Photo: taringa.net

Universidad de Chile will be wary of the strength of their opponents but must be confident they will triumph at home, currently on a 12 game winning streak at home*. The team are of course brimming with offensive talent and enjoy the wide spaces at the Estadio Nacional, they put six past Deportivo Quito in their last game there having previously knocked five past Colo Colo in a league match. At the weekend they recorded four more goals and the 18-year-old Angelo Henríquez was on the scoresheet twice, he is just one of a host of attacking threats.

Libertad XI (probable): R.Muñoz; C.Bonet, C.Nasuti, I.Benegas, M.Samudio; V.Ayala, S.Aquino, V.Caceres, L.Civelli; P.Velázquez, J.A.Nuñez

Prediction: A brave attempt ultimately ending in defeat for Paraguay’s flag bearer in the competition, 2-1

SELECTED ODDS:  Uni. de Chile win 1.45, Draw 4.9, Libertad win 8.8; 2-1 scoreline 9.0, Over 2.5 goals 1.67

BEST BET: The short odds on the home win and Overs is actually because people are expecting a rout, if you believe Libertad can grab goal then 1.8 on both teams to score isn’t bad at all

GAME LIVE ON BETFAIR VIDEO

*La U’s winning streak are for all games where they are nominally at home which includes the ‘Estadio Nacional’ and Estadio Santa Laura where they have played recent league games

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STATS & TRIVIA

Libertad last 5 away in Copa Libertadores

Pld 5 W 2 D 1 L 2 GF 5 GA 6

Universidad de Chile last 5 home in Copa Libertadores

Pld 5 W 4 D 0 L 1 GF 15 GA 5

Previous meetings between Libertad and Uni. de Chile

2012 – Libertad 1-1 Uni. de Chile

1977 – Libertad 3-0 Uni. de Chile

1977 – Uni. de Chile 1-0 Libertad

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FULL SQUAD LIST:

GK: Rodrigo Muñoz, Bernardo Medina

DEF: Joe Bizera, Carlos Bonet, Ismael Benegas, Cristian Nasuti, Miguel Samudio, Gustavo Mencia, Jorge Moreira, Nery Bareiro

MID: Sergio Aquino, Luciano Civelli, Víctor Cáceres, Víctor Ayala, Jonathan Santana,  Néstor Camacho, Rodolfo Gamarra

ATT: Pablo Velazquez, Cristian Menendez, José Ariel Nuñez, Maurito Caballero

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By Ralph Hannah

Author’s Note: All odds up to date at the time of writing, vía Betfair

Copa Libertadores 2012: Libertad and Universidad de Chile share the spoils

Libertad vs Universidad de Chile
Estadio Nicolas Leóz
(1-0) 1-1 – Víctor Cáceres 8′; Gustavo Lorenzetti 55′

The 1st leg of this quarter final tie lived up to the billing with a fascinating match, particularly the first half, which Libertad may feel disappointed not to have won. An early goal from Víctor ‘Topo’ Cáceres set the home team on their way after a blistering start but momentary slack marking in an otherwise excellent defensive display allowed Gustavo Lorenzetti to equalise. The final stages of the game couldn’t live up to the early intensity with the most notable incident, Emilio Hernández’s late red card.

Topo Cáceres celebrates his goal – Photo: D10.com.py

Libertad lined up as expected in a 4-4-2 but rather than sit back early on they looked to attack their opponents weak spots and harried and pressed the Chileans in midfield. The first chance came after a minute when Luciano Civelli was free on the left and put José Ariel Nuñez through on goal, the striker was slightly off balance and his weak shot on his unfavoured left foot was saved. On seven minutes the same two players combined to devastating effect, once again La U were forced into the mistake and Nuñez held the ball up well before releasing Civelli with a clever backheel; the Argentine winger burst into the area and his measured ball across goal was turned in by Topo Cáceres who had broken into the box.

José Ariel Nuñez had an excellent game – Photo: Prensa Club Libertad

Of course Universidad de Chile had possession, at one point Lorenzetti thought he should have had a penalty for a push, but everytime the away side attacked they encountered an organised wall of black and white with players lurking on the counter attack. After 17 minutes it could have been 2-0, Miguel Samudio was the furthest man forward on a counter attack but the left back screwed his shot wide of goal. The defender had an identical chance later in the half that forced a save but arguably the best chances towards the end of the half were for Libertad’s opponents. 18-year-old Angelo Henríquez  saw his point blank header saved by Rodrigo Muñoz, an excellent stop by the Uruguayan keeper who also tipped over a fizzing long shot from Marcelo Díaz just before halftime.

Libertad had been at their best in the first half when they got at Universidad de Chile and pressed them all over the pitch, they started the second period in that manner with Nuñez a thorn in the visitor’s side. He had a very good game, holding up the ball, pressing and showing excellent movement. Libertad looked to be back in control but were pegged back after a momentary lack of concentration. Matías Rodriguez got forward and found Lorenzetti in space in front of the Libertad defence, it was the first time all evening he had seen so much room to work in and the 27-year-old Argentine took full advantage unleashing a left foot shot that deflected off Carlos Bonet to creep into the corner. It was frustrating for Libertad and Jorge Burruchaga who up to that point had been so disciplined and followed the game plan to the letter.

Universidad de Chile fans had more to cheer in the end – Photo: D10.com.py

After the goal the game died down, Rodolfo Gamarra had come on for Bonet  and had a couple of dangerous crosses one of which fell to Civelli who shot straight at the goalkeeper.In general though it was the away side that had a better grip on the game but couldn’t find another hole in the Guma’s defensive shield.  In the final minutes substitute Emilio Hernandez of Universidad de Chile was shown his marching orders for a nasty looking tackle on Sergio Aquino. It was a blemish on an otherwise excellent game of football, one that Libertad performed well in but ultimately the advantage lies with their adversary going into the second leg in Santiago.

Libertad XI: Rodrigo Muñoz; Carlos Bonet, Cristian Nasuti, Ismael Benegas, Miguel Samudio; Víctor Ayala, Victor Cáceres, Sergio Aquino, Luciano Civelli; José Ariel Núñez, Pablo Velázquez

Subs: Rodolfo Gamarra for Carlos Bonet, Cristian Ménendez for Pablo Velázquez, Maurito Caballero for Luciano Civelli

2nd Leg: Thursday 24th May, Santiago, Chile, 21.30 (02.30 BST)

By Ralph Hannah

Copa Libertadores 2012: Libertad vs Universidad de Chile preview

Libertad vs Universidad de Chile
Estadio Nicolas Leóz
16/05/2012, 18.30 (23.30 BST)

A fascinating game awaits as Libertad welcome the reigning Copa Sudamericana champions Universidad de Chile to Asunción for the 1st leg of the Copa Libertadores Quarter Final tie. This is the only tie in the last eight not involving Brazilian or Argentinian sides and will be an intriguing mix of styles, “La U’s” fluid and flexible attacking play will face a tactically adept Libertad who like to defend deep where they win the ball and build attacks. The Chileans might be favourites for the tie having brushed aside Deportivo Quito in style last week but the home side certainly have the right weapons to hurt their opponents.

Libertad training yesterday – Photo: Prensa Club Libertad

Libertad scored three times against Cruz Azul via set pieces and with the quality of Victor Ayala (who set up two in 2nd leg) over free kicks and corners it could be a tough night for the Chilean back line. Of course the Paraguayans haven’t got this far by just being a South American Bolton Wanderers, they are a good footballing side who enjoy longe periods of possession especially through centre midfielders like Víctor Cáceres and Jonathan Sanatana who are masters at keeping the ball. Jorge Burruchaga has made them very organised and they will play 4-4-2 and the midfield will drop deep in front of their defence when they lose the ball which makes them hard to break down. Admittedly Uni. de Chile experienced something similar when they faced Peñarol earlier in the tournament and managed to get a draw.

Angelo Henríquez is La U’s teenage sensation – Photo: taringa.net

It will be interesting to see how “La U” line up for this game, they usually play with a back three and their wing backs will be key. Matías Rodriguez on the right will want to pressure Miguel Samudio but must also track Luciano Civelli to help his team when they lose the ball. There is tremendous attacking talent in the side, the 17-year-old Angelo Henríquez up front with Gustavo Lorenzetti playing behind him. The Lorenzetti vs Cáceres battle could be key to this game and if the Paraguayan doesn’t stay tight and press well (with support of his teammates) the Chileans will run riot, just ask Nery Pumpido.

Libertad XI (probable): R.Muñoz; C.Bonet, C.Nasuti, I.Benegas, M.Samudio; V.Ayala, S.Aquino, V.Caceres, L.Civelli; P.Velázquez, J.A.Nuñez

Prediction: Libertad to take advantage of defensive frailities from dead ball, 2-1

SELECTED ODDS:  Libertad win 2.56, Draw 3.4, Uni. de Chile win 3.15; 2-1 scoreline 11.0, Over 2.5 goals 1.98

BEST BET: Both teams to score is only 1.7 but the safest option if you don’t think Libertad have enough to win

GAME LIVE ON BETFAIR VIDEO

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STATS & TRIVIA

Libertad last 5 home in Copa Libertadores

Pld 5 W 4 D 1 L 0 GF 13 GA 4

Universidad de Chile last 5 away in Copa Libertadores

Pld 5 W 1 D 2 L 2 GF 4 GA 8

Previous meetings between Libertad and Uni. de Chile

1977 – Libertad 3-0 Uni. de Chile

1977 – Uni. de Chile 1-0 Libertad

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FULL SQUAD LIST:

GK: Rodrigo Muñoz, Bernardo Medina

DEF: Joe Bizera, Carlos Bonet, Ismael Benegas, Cristian Nasuti, Miguel Samudio, Gustavo Mencia

MID: Sergio Aquino, Luciano Civelli, Víctor Cáceres, Víctor Ayala, Jonathan Santana, Marcos Melgarejo, Néstor Camacho, Rodolfo Gamarra

ATT: Pablo Velazquez, Cristian Menendez, José Ariel Nuñez, Maurito Caballero

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By Ralph Hannah

Author’s Note: All odds up to date at the time of writing, vía Betfair

Paraguay Abroad: Its raining goals in América & Barrios is Bundesliga bicampeón

The major news is that Borussia Dortmund were crowned Bundesliga champions for the second year running which means another title for Paraguay’s Lucas Barrios. Admittedly it hasn’t been a vintage season for the striker, according to ABC he has made just two starts this season featuring in only 327 minutes of football and scoring a solitary goal, but it is another winner’s medal for the CV as the striker looks to move on in the (European) summer.

Back on these shores and there were goals in Colombia, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador and Venezuela from eight Paraguayans making it nine worldwide (Cristian Riveros netted a penalty in Turkey). You can see a handy compilation video here. As ever the full details are below.

PARAGUAY ABROAD ROUND UP

EUROPE

England

Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan Athletic) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 defeat

Portugal

Oscar Cardozo (Benfica) – played full 90 mins in 4-1 win – Benfica closing in on title

Javier Cohene (Paços de Ferreira) - played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Lorenzo Melgarejo (Paços de Ferreira) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Julio Aguilar (Paços de Ferreira) – Not in match squad

Juan Manuel Iturbe (Porto) - Not in match squad

Italy

Edgar Barreto (Palermo) – Not in match squad

Marcelo Estigarribia (Juventus) - Not in match squad

Spain

Roque Santa Cruz (Real Betis) – subbed off after 71 mins in 4-0 defeat

Hernan Perez (Villarreal) – subbed off after 81 mins in 1-1 draw

Paulo Da Silva (Real Zaragoza) – played full 90 mins  1-0 loss

Germany

Lucas Barrios (Borussia Dortmund) – Unused Sub

Turkey

Cristian Riveros (Kayserispor) – SCORED penalty in 2-1 win as Kayserispor qualify for Intertoto Cup

Holland

Celso Ortiz (AZ) – Injured

Roberto ‘Gatito’ Fernandez (Utrecht) – Unused Sub

Russia

Nelson Haedo Valdez (Rubin Kazan) – not in match squad

Switzerland

Dario Lezcano (FC Luzern) – played full 90 mins in 3-1 win

Slovakia

Jorge Salinas (Trencin) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 victory

Cyprus

Aldo Adorno (APOEL) – Unused sub

LATIN AMERICA

Argentina

Jorge Achucarro (Banfield) – Unused sub

Orlando Gaona Lugo (Boca Juniors) – Not in match squad

Eduardo Ledesma (Lanús) – subbed off after 90 mins in 0-0 draw

Victor Aquino (Newell’s) - Not in match squad

Nestor Bareiro (Olimpo) – subbed on after 53 mins in 1-0 loss

Marcos Cáceres (Racing) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 win

Federico Santander (Racing) - played full 90 mins in 1-0 win

Nestor Ortigoza (San Lorenzo) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Mexico

Fredy Bareiro (Estudiantes Tecos) – Not in match squad

Aureliano Torres (Toluca) – played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw – missed out on Liguilla

Dario Verón (PUMAS) – injured

Osvaldo Martinez (Atlante) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Bolivia

Aquilino Villalba (Aurora) – SCORED second consecutive goal in 4-1 defeat

Hugo Sebastian Gimenez (Guabira) – Unused sub

Francisco Antonio Argüello (Oriente Petroleo) – played full 90 mins in 4-1 victory

Gustavo David Arce (Real Mamore) – played full 90 mins in 0-0 draw

Luis Gustavo Lugo (Real Mamore) – Unused sub

Henry William Lapczyk (Real Potosí) – played full 90 mins in 3-3 draw

Claudio Centurión (Real Potosí) – SENT OFF in 3-3 draw

Ernesto Ruben Cristaldo (The Strongest) – subbed on after 45 mins in 3-3 draw

Pablo Daniel Escobar (The Strongest) – SCORED twice in 3-3 draw later SENT OFF

Delio Ramon Ojeda (The Strongest) – Not in match squad

Chile

José David Portillo (Antofagasta) – played full 90 mins in 4-0 defeat

Fabian Benitez (Audax Italiano) – not in match squad

Miguel Angel Cuellar (Cobresal) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 loss

Hugo Lusardi (Cobreloa) – Not in match squad

Pedro Vera (Cobreloa) - Not in match squad

Derlis Barrios (Cobreloa) - Not in match squad

Osmar Molinas (Colo Colo) – Not in match squad

Cristian Bogado (Dep. Iquique) – Not in match squad

Cristian Limenza (Dep. Iquique) – Unused sub

Milton Benitez (Huachipato) – Not in match squad

Rodrigo Rojas (O’Higgins) – SCORED for second game running in 5-0 victory

Rodrigo Riquelme (Palestino) – Unused sub

Roberto ‘Bufalo’ Ovelar (Uni. Catolica) – SCORED opener in 3-0 win

Cristian Britez (Uni. Concepción) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Arnaldo Gimenez (Unión La Calera) – Unused Sub

Colombia

Digno Gonzalez (Atletico Huila) – Unused sub

Robin Ramirez (Dep. Tolima) – SCORED stoppage time winner in 2-1 victory

Antony Silva (Dep. Tolima) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 victory

Edison Gimenez (La Equidad) – Not in match squad

German Centurion (Santa Fe) – No game at weekend

Jorge Nuñez (Once Caldas) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 defeat

Marcos Lazaga (Patriotas) – SCORED winner in 1-0 victory

Ecuador

Miguel Paniagua (Dtvo. Cuenca) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 defeat

Fernando Gimenez (Emelec) – subbed off at halftime in 2-1 loss

Librado Azcona (Independiente) - played full 90 mins in 4-1 win

Edgar Balbuena (Independiente) – played full 90 mins in 4-1 win

Richard Estigarribia (Independiente) – SCORED in 4-1 win

Enrique Vera (Liga de Quito) – Not in match squad

Arnaldo Vera (LDU Loja) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 victory

Mingo Martinez (Macará) – played full 90 mins in 2-0 defeat

Nestor Ayala (Técnico Universitario) – Not in match squad

Perú

Edgar Gonzalez (Alianza Lima) – played full 90 mins in 3-0 loss

Mario Villasanti (Inti Gas) – KEPT CLEANSHEET in 3-0 win

Oscar Díaz (Inti Gas) – played full 90 mins in 3-0 win

Ramon ‘Tacuarita’ Cardozo (León de Huánuco) – subbed on at halftime in 2-1 defeat

Fabio Ramos (Real Atlético Garcilaso) – played full 90 mins in 0-0 draw

Daniel Ferreira (Real Atlético Garcilaso) – Unused sub

Blas Lopez (Sport Huancayo) -played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Hector Sosa (Unión Comercio) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 defeat

Uruguay

Edison Torres (Liverpool) – SENT OFF in 2-1 loss

Venezuela

Luis Ovelar (Dptvo. Petare) – Not in match squad

Victor Ferreira (Caracas FC) – SCORED team’s opener in 3-2 loss

Fidel Perez (Caracas FC) – Not in match squad

By Ralph Hannah

Paraguay Abroad: Guaraní reign on other side of Chaco in Bolivia

With only Hernan Perez scoring in Europe (now has two in two for the yellow submarine) the major talking point was just north of the border in Bolivia where three of our pioneers got on the scoresheet. There was also a first league goal for ex-Rubio Ñu striker Digno Gonzalez and a goal in Chile for Rodrigo Rojas who is putting his Belgian nightmare behind him. In Argentina there were two scorers, Nestor Bareiro got an equaliser for Olimpo who went on to lose while Victor Aquino needed just five minutes as a sub to etch his name in the scorers books as Newell’s Old Boys (managed by ex-Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino) went joint top of the league. Full round up and all the goals below.

PARAGUAY ABROAD ROUND UP

EUROPE

England

Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan Athletic) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 win vs Arsenal – Wigan on incredible run to avoid relegation

Portugal

Oscar Cardozo (Benfica) – subbed on after 62 mins in 2-1 league cup final win

Javier Cohene (Paços de Ferreira) - No game at weekend

Lorenzo Melgarejo (Paços de Ferreira) - No game at weekend

Julio Aguilar (Paços de Ferreira) - No game at weekend

Juan Manuel Iturbe (Porto) – No game at weekend

Italy

Edgar Barreto (Palermo) – Games cancelled following death of Piermario Morosini

Marcelo Estigarribia (Juventus) –  Games cancelled following death of Piermario Morosini

Spain

Roque Santa Cruz (Real Betis) – subbed off after 77 mins in 1-0 victory

Hernan Perez (Villarreal) – SCORED opener in 1-1 draw following his last minute winner midweek!

Paulo Da Silva (Real Zaragoza) – played full 90 mins in crucial 1-0 win to try and avoid relegation

Germany

Lucas Barrios (Borussia Dortmund) – Unused Sub

Turkey

Cristian Riveros (Kayserispor) – now in SporToto Cup so hard to find line ups

Holland

Celso Ortiz (AZ) - Not in match squad

Roberto ‘Gatito’ Fernandez (Utrecht) – Unused Sub

Russia

Nelson Haedo Valdez (Rubin Kazan) – subbed off after 59 mins in 2-0 defeat

Switzerland

Dario Lezcano (FC Luzern) – played full 90 mins in 0-0 draw

Slovakia

Jorge Salinas (Trencin) – played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Cyprus

Aldo Adorno (APOEL) – No game this weekend

LATIN AMERICA

Argentina

Jorge Achucarro (Banfield) – subbed on after 72 mins in 3-0 loss

Orlando Gaona Lugo (Boca Juniors) – Not in match squad

Eduardo Ledesma (Lanús) – subbed on after 48 mins in 1-0 win

Victor Aquino (Newell’s) – SCORED last minute goal in 3-0 victory, Newell’s now joint top!

Nestor Bareiro (Olimpo) – SCORED in 2-1 defeat

Marcos Cáceres (Racing) – subbed on after 61 mins in 4-1 derby defeat

Federico Santander (Racing) – Unused sub

Nestor Ortigoza (San Lorenzo) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Mexico

Fredy Bareiro (Estudiantes Tecos) – Not in match squad

Aureliano Torres (Toluca) – subbed off at HT in 3-0 loss

Dario Verón (PUMAS) – injured

Osvaldo Martinez (Atlante) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 defeat

Bolivia

Aquilino Villalba (Aurora) – SCORED second in 4-0 win

Hugo Sebastian Gimenez (Guabira) – Not in match squad

Francisco Antonio Argüello (Oriente Petroleo) – played full 90 mins in 3-2 loss

Gustavo David Arce (Real Mamore) – SCORED opener in 2-1 loss

Luis Gustavo Lugo (Real Mamore) – Unused sub

Henry William Lapczyk (Real Potosí) – played full 90 mins in 3-2 win

Claudio Centurión (Real Potosí) –  SCORED WINNER in 3-2 victory

Ernesto Ruben Cristaldo (The Strongest) – subbed on after 84 mins in 3-1 win

Pablo Daniel Escobar (The Strongest) – subbed off after 84 mins in 3-1 win

Delio Ramon Ojeda (The Strongest) – Not in match squad

Chile

José David Portillo (Antofagasta)  - played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Fabian Benitez (Audax Italiano) – not in match squad

Miguel Angel Cuellar (Cobresal) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 loss

Hugo Lusardi (Cobreloa) – Not in match squad

Pedro Vera (Cobreloa) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 loss

Derlis Barrios (Cobreloa) – subbed off after 59 mins in 1-0 loss

Osmar Molinas (Colo Colo) – Not in match squad

Cristian Bogado (Dep. Iquique) – Not in match squad

Cristian Limenza (Dep. Iquique) – Unused sub

Milton Benitez (Huachipato) – Not in match squad

Rodrigo Rojas (O’Higgins) - SCORED header in 2-1 loss

Rodrigo Riquelme (Palestino) – SUSPENDED

Roberto ‘Bufalo’ Ovelar (Uni. Catolica) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Cristian Britez (Uni. Concepción) – played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Arnaldo Gimenez (Unión La Calera) – Unused Sub

Colombia

Digno Gonzalez (Atletico Huila) – SCORED in 3-1 defeat his first goal in the Liga Postobon

Robin Ramirez (Dep. Tolima) – subbed off after 83 mins in 1-1 draw

Antony Silva (Dep. Tolima) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Edison Gimenez (La Equidad) – Not in match squad

German Centurion (Santa Fe) – subbed on after 88 mins in 1-0 win

Jorge Nuñez (Once Caldas) – subbed off after 59 mins in 1-1 draw

Marcos Lazaga (Patriotas) – subbed off after 70 mins in 2-0 defeat

Ecuador 

Miguel Paniagua (Dtvo. Cuenca) - played full 90 mins in 2-1 defeat

Fernando Gimenez (Emelec) – Not in match squad

Librado Azcona (Independiente) - CLEANSHEET  in 2-0 win now top of the league

Edgar Balbuena (Independiente) - played full 90 mins in 2-0 win now top of the league

Richard Estigarribia (Independiente) – subbed off after 86 mins in 2-0 win now top of the league

Enrique Vera (Liga de Quito) – Not in match squad

Arnaldo Vera (LDU Loja) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Mingo Martinez (Macará) – played full 90 mins in 3-0 defeat

Nestor Ayala (Técnico Universitario) – Not in match squad

Perú

Edgar Gonzalez (Alianza Lima) - played full 90 mins in 1-0 win

Mario Villasanti (Inti Gas) – played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Oscar Díaz (Inti Gas) - played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Ramon ‘Tacuarita’ Cardozo (León de Huánuco) – Not in match squad

Fabio Ramos (Real Atlético Garcilaso) - played full 90 mins in 2-0 victory

Daniel Ferreira (Real Atlético Garcilaso) – Unused sub

Blas Lopez (Sport Huancayo) -played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Hector Sosa (Unión Comercio) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Uruguay

Edison Torres (Liverpool) – played full 90 mins in 2-0 win, have 7 victories in last 8

Venezuela

Luis Ovelar (Dptvo. Petare) – Not in match squad

Victor Ferreira (Caracas FC) – subbed off after 71 mins in 1-0 loss

Fidel Perez (Caracas FC) - Not in match squad

By Ralph Hannah

Paraguay Abroad: Dario Lezcano back amongst the goals in Switzerland

There were ten albirroja goalscorers outside of Paraguay’s frontiers this weekend inlcuding Robin Ramirez in Colombia, Aureliano Torres in Mexico just some of those who found the net in Latin America, while across the Atlantic there were strikes by Roque Santa Cruz and Nelson Haedo Valdez in Europe, and also Dario Lezcano for Luzern in Switzerland who we focus on this week.

Player Stats

Name: Dario Lezcano

D.o.B: 30 June 1990

Club: FC Luzern, Switzerland

Hometown: Asunción, Paraguay

Height: 1.78 metres

Position: Striker

Previous Clubs: Sportivo Trinidense (Paraguay), FC Wil, FC Thun (both Switzerland)

Dario Lezcano hardly played in his native country before being whisked away to Europe aged 18 where he settled in St.Gallen and FC Wil. While not scoring he played regularly over the three years, improving as a player before getting a move to FC Thun at the beginning of 2011. There he enjoyed a successful year, scoring key goals like this equaliser against Palermo in the Europa League.

Dario Lezcano - Photo: Wikipedia.org

Earlier this year he moved on to another Swiss club, FC Luzern where he has started excellentely scoring a double in his second game against Young Boys, the second a real cracker. His equaliser against Basel this weekend has taken him to 4 goals in 8 games for his new club. A feature of his play is his strong running and power which allows to get him into the box where he is deadly with the ball at his feet. His current form can help Luzern qualify for European competition where once again Lezcano can show the continent his credentials.

PARAGUAY ABROAD ROUND UP

EUROPE

England

Antolin Alcaraz (Wigan Athletic) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 defeat to Chelsea

Portugal

Oscar Cardozo (Benfica) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 loss

Javier Cohene (Paços de Ferreira) – SCORED winner in 2-1 victory

Lorenzo Melgarejo (Paços de Ferreira) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 victory

Julio Aguilar (Paços de Ferreira) – Not in match squad

Juan Manuel Iturbe (Porto) – Unused Sub

Italy

Edgar Barreto (Palermo) – played full 90 mins in 2-0 loss

Marcelo Estigarribia (Juventus) -  played full 90 mins in 2-0 win

Spain

Roque Santa Cruz (Real Betis) – SCORED opener in 3-1 win

Hernan Perez (Villarreal) – Not in match squad

Paulo Da Silva (Real Zaragoza) – played full 90 mins in 4-1 loss to Barcelona

Germany

Lucas Barrios (Borussia Dortmund) – Unused Sub

Turkey

Cristian Riveros (Kayserispor) – played full 90 mins in 5-0 win

Holland

Celso Ortiz (AZ) - No game at weekend

Roberto ‘Gatito’ Fernandez (Utrecht) – No game at weekend

Russia

Nelson Haedo Valdez (Rubin Kazan) – SCORED equaliser in 1-1 draw

Switzerland

Dario Lezcano (FC Luzern) – SCORED equaliser in 1-1 draw

Slovakia

Jorge Salinas (Trencin) – played full 90 mins in 5-2 win

Cyprus

Aldo Adorno (APOEL) – subbed off after 56 mins in 2-1 loss

LATIN AMERICA

Argentina

Jorge Achucarro (Banfield) – Unused sub

Orlando Gaona Lugo (Boca Juniors) – Not in match squad

Eduardo Ledesma (Lanús) – played full 90 mins in 1-0 loss

Victor Aquino (Newell’s) – subbed on after 61 mins in 1-1 draw

Nestor Bareiro (Olimpo) – subbed on after 80 mins in 2-1 defeat

Marcos Cáceres (Racing) – subbed on after 51 mins in 1-1 draw

Federico Santander (Racing) – subbed on after 70 mins in 1-1 draw

Nestor Ortigoza (San Lorenzo) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Mexico

Fredy Bareiro (Estudiantes Tecos) – SCORED equaliser in 1-1 draw

Aureliano Torres (Toluca) – SCORED opener in 2-1 loss

Dario Verón (PUMAS) – injured

Osvaldo Martinez (Atlante) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 defeat

Bolivia

Aquilino Villalba (Aurora) – SCORED opener in 3-1 win

Hugo Sebastian Gimenez (Guabira) – subbed on after 75 mins in 3-1 loss

Francisco Antonio Argüello (Oriente Petroleo) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 victory

Gustavo David Arce (Real Mamore) – played full 90 mins in 4-0 defeat

Luis Gustavo Lugo (Real Mamore) – Unused sub

Henry William Lapczyk (Real Potosí) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Claudio Centurión (Real Potosí) –  played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Ernesto Ruben Cristaldo (The Strongest) – subbed on after 65 mins in 4-0 win

Pablo Daniel Escobar (The Strongest) – SCORED in 4-0 win

Delio Ramon Ojeda (The Strongest) – Unused sub

Chile

José David Portillo (Antofagasta)  - played full 90 mins in 2-1 loss

Fabian Benitez (Audax Italiano) – not in match squad

Miguel Angel Cuellar (Cobresal) – played full 90 mins in 2-0 loss

Hugo Lusardi (Cobreloa) – Not in match squad

Pedro Vera (Cobreloa) – played full 90 mins in 5-1 defeat, now lost 6 of last 7

Derlis Barrios (Cobreloa) – Not in match squad

Osmar Molinas (Colo Colo) – Unused sub

Cristian Bogado (Dep. Iquique) – Not in match squad

Cristian Limenza (Dep. Iquique) – Unused sub

Milton Benitez (Huachipato) – Not in match squad

Rodrigo Rojas (O’Higgins) - played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Rodrigo Riquelme (Palestino) – SENT OFF in 2-0 defeat

Roberto ‘Bufalo’ Ovelar (Uni. Catolica) – SCORED in 5-1 victory

Cristian Britez (Uni. Concepción) – played full 90 mins in 2-0 win

Arnaldo Gimenez (Unión La Calera) – Unused Sub

Colombia

Digno Gonzalez (Atletico Huila) – Not in match squad

Robin Ramirez (Dep. Tolima) – SCORED in 2-2 draw, now has 3 in last 4

Antony Silva (Dep. Tolima) – played full 90 mins in 2-2 draw

Edison Gimenez (La Equidad) – Not in match squad

German Centurion (Santa Fe) – Not in match squad

Jorge Nuñez (Once Caldas) – Not in match squad

Marcos Lazaga (Patriotas) – played full 90 mins in 2-0 defeat

Ecuador 

Miguel Paniagua (Dtvo. Cuenca) - played full 90 mins in 2-1 win, have picked up 4 victories in last 5

Fernando Gimenez (Emelec) – Not in match squad

Librado Azcona (Independiente) - played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Edgar Balbuena (Independiente) - played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Richard Estigarribia (Independiente) – subbed off after 87 mins in 2-1 win

Enrique Vera (Liga de Quito) – Not in match squad

Arnaldo Vera (LDU Loja) – played full 90 mins in3-2 win

Mingo Martinez (Macará) – played full 90 mins in 1-1 draw

Nestor Ayala (Técnico Universitario) – Not in match squad

Perú

Mario Villasanti (Inti Gas) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Oscar Díaz (Inti Gas) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 win

Ramon ‘Tacuarita’ Cardozo (León de Huánuco) – Not in match squad

Fabio Ramos (Real Atlético Garcilaso) - played full 90 mins in 0-0 draw

Daniel Ferreira (Real Atlético Garcilaso) – Unused sub

Blas Lopez (Sport Huancayo) – played full 90 mins in 3-1 loss

Hector Sosa (Unión Comercio) – played full 90 mins in 0-0 draw

Uruguay

Edison Torres (Liverpool) – played full 90 mins in 2-1 win, have 6 victories in last 7

Venezuela

Luis Ovelar (Dptvo. Petare) – no game at weekend

Victor Ferreira (Caracas FC) – no game at weekend

Fidel Perez (Caracas FC) - no game at weekend

By Ralph Hannah