Outright Odds: 200/1
Group B Winners: 8/1
Paraguay have qualified for their third successive World Cup finals, but like fellow South American qualifiers Ecuador, their route to Germany was an inconsistent one. After leading the group early on, just one win from seven games in 2004 followed. However, this was levelled out overall with eight victories, four draws and six defeats, seeing them finish in fourth position with a round of fixtures to spare.
Viewers will no longer be treated to the talismanic goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert, the veteran captain and dead-ball specialist who has now retired. He failed in his attempt to become the first goalkeeper to score in the finals but was superb at commanding his defence in France 1998 which saw them qualify to the second round.
One of Paraguay’s main strengths was a water-tight defence marshalled by Chilavert but this is not the case any longer. Veteran centre back Carlos Gamarra, with more than 100 caps to his name, will be 35 by the time the finals kick off and he lacks a commanding stopper alongside him. While goalkeeper Justo Villar has exceeded expectations, he is no Chilavert.
However, Paraguay possesses a resilient team spirit which could see them repeat the heroics of France 1998 and the qualities which saw them into the second round four years ago. At the moment they appear to have found a good blend between the veterans of yesteryear and the next generation of young talent.
With more firepower than recent Paraguayan sides, manager Anibal Ruiz faces a selection dilemma in attack. The established strike partnership of Roque Santa Cruz amd Jose Cardozo is under pressure from Werder Bremen striker Nelson Valdez.
Valdez could replace Santa Cruz who has recently suffered a knee injury and has struggled to make an impact at club Bayern Munich during his six seasons at the Bundesliga side due to the fierce competition for places. Valdez could partner Cardozo, who was Paraguay’s leading qualifying goal scorer with seven strikes.
If Santa Cruz is also fit, Paraguay could cause some real problems for their opposition as he is strong in the air and has pace and skill. It is the defence which poses the main problem as it is no longer solid enough as heavy 4-1 qualifying defeats to Brazil and Peru and a 5-2 reverse in Ecuador showed.
Despite qualifying in their last two campaigns, Paraguay could come unstuck this time around with England and Sweden likely to reach the last 16 at their expense.
Recommended Bet:
Despite their attacking prowess, Paraguay could miss out on a place in the second round with England and Sweden favourites to qualify. Check on the odds for the match against Trinidad & Tobago as that could be their best chance of success.
Paraguay to beat Trinidad & Tobago @ 1/2
Word count: 459