Coach : Anibal Ruiz
A Uruguayan, Ruiz made his name coaching club football in Paraguay and took over from Cesare Maldini after the 2002 World Cup. He guided his team through a sometimes-rocky qualifying campaign where they eventually finished fourth to grab the last South American place.
Key Players
Roque Santa Cruz, the lanky but skilful Bayern Munich forward, will be the main attacking threat if he does not suffer any setbacks from a long injury lay-off. Roberto Acuna is a powerful yet creative influence in midfield with a wealth of experience in Europe.
Form Guide
Paraguay have made it through the group phase in the last two World Cups but will need to be on better form to do the same again. Just scraped qualification, conceding as many goals (23) as scoring.
Form Versus Countries In Group
Lost to England 3-0 in the 1986 World Cup when Gary Lineker scored twice and Peter Beardsley struck the other.
Style Of Play
Good blend of youth and experience and very attack-minded but defensively suspect.
Group Verdict
Will be confident of beating Trinidad but look a fairly certain bet for third spot.
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