Ahead to the round of 16, Paraguay
After playing New Zealand to a scoreless draw in one of the tournament’s least exciting games, Paraguay became the third South American team to win its World Cup group. In the round of 16, Japan will play the Paraguayans.
Guarani Coach Gerardo Martino made three adjustments to the team that defeated Slovakia 2-0, starting defenders Denis Caniza, Julio Cesar Caceres, an attacker Oscar Cardozo.
The little activity in the first half came from Paraguay captain Caniza, who rushed forward with two intriguing runs that resulted in strong long-distance shots at goal. From the kickoff, neither team appeared motivated to drive forward.
Both teams looked pleased to keep the score tied in the second half, which again left a lot to be desired. The ball was cleared out of danger following a goalmouth scramble, but it took 62 minutes to get a corner, and Paraguay was unfortunate not to take the lead when Cristian Riveros had a header parried away by ‘All White’ goalkeeper Mark Paston.
Neither team presented much of a danger in terms of scoring opportunities; the Kiwis had precisely zero shots on goal, although trying harder in stoppage time, to no effect. For New Zealand to proceed to the competition’s knockout round, they simply needed one goal.
Since they have never previously advanced as the group winners to the round of 16, Paraguay won their group with 5 points, a new record. Italy, the defending champions, were eliminated from the competition after falling to Slovakia, who earned four points and advanced as well.
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