Penalty helps Paraguay to beat Costa Rica
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-07-09 08:51

Paraguay escaped against Costa Rica in the first match of Group C of the Copa America, with the help of a penalty kick in the dying minutes.

Costa Rican goalie Ricardo Gonzalez (L) punches the ball to stop a goal attempt by Paraguay's Diego Figueredo (R) and Jose Devaca in the first half of their first round Copa America match in Arequipa, Peru, July 8, 2004. [Reuters]

Throughout the game, Paraguay were the dominant side but their strikers were unable to score from the created chances as the average level of both teams was lower than hoped for.

Paraguay's Julio Dos Santos smiles after scoring a goal on a penalty kick against Costa Rica in the second half of their first round Copa America match in Arequipa, Peru, July 8, 2004. Paraguay won the match 1-0. [Reuters]

In the 85th minute however, the Paraguays were given a spotkick which Dos Santos struck into the right corner as the goalkeeper dove to the other side. Tournament invitees and 2002 World Cup participants Costa Rica were unable to score during the remaining few minutes.

Paraguay and Costa Rica share group C with favorites Brazil and Chile, who face each other in the other match on Thursday.

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