Copa America 2019, Argentina 1-1 Paraguay: 5 Talking Points

#2 Paraguay left to rue chances

Paraguay was left to rue their chances

The Paraguayans were yet again left to rue their chances following their 2-2 draw against Qatar after letting a 2-0 lead slip up.

Today the Paraguayans spurned a great chance of beating a South American opponent at the Copa America for the first time since 2007.

Eduardo Berizzo's side was the more dangerous of the two during major portions in the match but failed to capitalize on their upper hand.

The Paraguayans had their first chance in the 24th minute but saw Gonzalez's shot blocked. They eventually took the lead in the 37th minute through Sanchez after some brilliant play by Miguel Almiron.

They were unlucky to go behind in the 57th minute after VAR awarded a penalty to the Albiceleste after a harsh handball.

Los Guaraníes La Albirroja though were given their own penalty in the 61st minute but Gonzalez had his shot saved by Armani.

In the 83rd minute Berizzo side was yet again given an opportunity from a set piece situation but saw their efforts thwarted by the Argentianian goalkeeper.

The Paraguayans were left to rue their chances as they scuffed a great chance to qualify to the next round of the competition.

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#1 Argentina needs to sort out their defensive problems quickly

Argentina need to address their defensive issues as quickly as possible

It's a mystery why the Albiceleste fails to address their glaring defensive problems even though it has been their most problem-filled area for the last couple of years.

Today, yet again, showcased why the defence needed major reworking as a relatively less dangerous Paraguayan attack ran riot amongst the Argentina backline.

Miguel Almiron and Gonzalez toyed with the Argentina defence all day long, as the South American giants failed to cope with the pace of the duo.

The defence was split open in the 24th minute but a crucial block by Tagliafico helped Albicelste keep the scores level.

The defence was carved open once again but this time Paraguay capitalised after Almiron virtually cut through the back four with a brilliant run and an equally impressive assist.

Their was more misery to come as Nicolas Otamendi poor tackle saw Paraguay being awarded a penalty only for Franco Armani to save the day.

If not for poor finishing, Paraguay would have comfortably won the match. Luca Scaloni will need to work overtime on his defence if they are to reach the quality that an Argentina team requires.