As the 2024 Copa America kicks off, Colombia and Paraguay are set to face off in an exciting Group D clash at NRG Stadium in Houston.
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams bring distinct strengths and strategies to the field.
Colombia's Form and Key Players
Colombia enters this tournament with impressive momentum, boasting a 23-match unbeaten streak.
The team, managed by Nestor Lorenzo, has not tasted defeat in over two years, with their last loss occurring in February 2022 against Argentina. Currently, they are on an eight-match winning run, outscoring opponents 12-3 in 2024.
The Colombian squad features seasoned players such as James Rodriguez, who recently celebrated his 100th cap, and David Ospina, the team’s most capped player with 128 appearances.
Liverpool's Luis Diaz is another key player, poised to earn his 50th cap while having scored 12 goals for his national team.
Paraguay's Form and Key Players
Paraguay, on the other hand, has shown resilience in recent matches. After a four-match winless streak, they secured a victory against Panama in their last outing. Under the guidance of Daniel Garnero,
Paraguay has displayed a preference for deep defending and counter-attacking. Despite this, they have managed to keep a clean sheet in nine of their previous ten games.
Paraguay's lineup includes experienced players like Gustavo Gomez, who is nearing his 75th cap, and Derlis Gonzalez, who has accumulated 51 caps.
The team also features emerging talents such as Fabrizio Peralta and Rodrigo Morinigo.
Team News
Colombia
In their recent victory over Bolivia, Colombia saw James Rodriguez add another milestone to his illustrious career.
Young talents such as Sebastian Gomez and Yerson Mosquera are expected to make significant contributions, with Liverpool's Luis Diaz leading the attack alongside Jhon Cordoba and Jhon Arias.
Predicted Starting Lineup: Ospina; S. Arias, Mina, Cuesta, Machado; Uribe, Lerma; J. Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba
Paraguay
Paraguay’s squad sees a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers.
Gustavo Velazquez, who scored his first international goal against Panama, and Carlos Coronel, who has been impressive in goal, are expected to play crucial roles.
Predicted Starting Lineup: Coronel; Velazquez, Balbuena, Gomez, Alonso; Villasanti, Cubas, Almiron; Sosa, Bareiro, Enciso
Prediction
Given their current form and depth of experience, Colombia appears to have the upper hand in this matchup.
While Paraguay's defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess cannot be underestimated, Colombia's consistent performance and attacking firepower suggest they might edge out a narrow victory.
Colombia 
Paraguay 
