There is a quiet optimism in Paraguayan football that has not been seen for many years, since the days when the legendary Jose Luis Chilavert used to fill the Guarani net with his more than ample frame. A quarter-final finish in the 2010 World Cup has allowed Paraguay to be considered one of the premier teams on the continent, and it would be a surprise to no one if they mount a serious challenge in 2011.

Argentine coach Gerardo Martino deserves a lot of the credit for whipping the side into shape with his no-nonsense, disciplinarian approach. He has taken a risk in this tournament by leaving out Benfica star Oscar Cardozo, which means more than ever, the burden will fall on Roque Santa Cruz to provide a spark for the less than prolific landlocked country.