In a match with few emotions, Paraguay managed to beat Panama by the slightest difference in their last preparation duel towards the Copa América-2024. The match, played at the Rommel Fernández stadium in Panama City, revealed some aspects that raise doubts and criticism about the current performance of the Guaraní team.
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The goal that made the difference came early in the game, specifically at minute 25, when defender Gustavo Velázquez headed a cross after a corner kick. This score was enough to give Paraguay the victory, although the team showed some flaws in its game that could be worrying for the continental tournament.
During the first half, both teams shared the ball with back-and-forth attacks, but clear scoring opportunities were rare. The Panamanian defense was solid on several occasions, especially in a long-distance shot that complicated goalkeeper Carlos Coronel, who managed to reject the ball to the side. However, Paraguay knew how to capitalize on one of their opportunities and went into the break with the lead on the scoreboard.
In the second half, Panama intensified its pressure in search of a tie. He had several clear opportunities, including a play in which striker José Fajardo was left alone in front of the goalkeeper, but his header went wide. These attempts to equalize the score were not enough, and Paraguay managed to keep a clean sheet until the final whistle.
This victory leaves Paraguay with mixed feelings. Although it is positive to add a victory in the pre-tournament phase, doubts about the team’s performance persist. The absence of Miguel Almirón in this match also raises questions about how it will affect the team’s play in the Copa América.
The debut ofe Paraguay in the continental tournament is scheduled for Monday, June 24, where it will face Colombia at 5 p.m. Colombian time. This first match will be crucial to measure the team’s level and see how it performs against rivals of the caliber of Colombia, Brazil and Costa Rica in Group D of the tournament.
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On the other hand, Panama, which is also preparing for its participation in the Copa América, will debut in Group C of the competition against Uruguay next Sunday. Although the result against Paraguay was not what was desired, the team led by Thomas Christiansen will seek to correct mistakes and show its best version in the continental tournament.
