Copa America 2011: Paraguay, a finalist based on ties

It was almost six o'clock in the morning in Spain, when Paraguay became a finalist in the 2011 Copa America. He was leaving to Venezuela through a perfectly executed penalty shoot-out and stop taking advantage of Lucena Justo Villar. It is without doubt the goalkeeper who must be most proud of the combined Guarani. If Paraguay has reached the final, has been greater because of it. Since their forwards have not helped to win games, at least ex Valladolid goalkeeper has avoided losing them. Paraguay is the first choice in the history of the America's Cup reaching the final without winning a single game: Five games, five draws. Three of them goalless.

A baggage too poor for a title contender, but in the end they will have to do with the hard rock of Uruguay. However, the 'Tata' Martino already left in the lurch Brazil and Venezuela without merit, receiving many clear chances, at the mercy of his opponent, yet overcoming all obstacles to the lottery of the penalty spot.

And why in early this morning Paraguay started strongly, dominating, creating good chances. With Ortigoza midfield showing his discretion and creativity, and the ever-combative Valdez in the attack last night without aim. But little by little they began to deflate and Venezuela, stretching, reaching to put fear in the body of his opponent with a goal disallowed for offside Vizcarrondo Rondon, or an excellent header against the crossbar work of Moreno.

However, I must say that the game for the neutral fan, it was extremely boring. At least until the arrival of an extension in Venezuela, based on caste, went for it and deserved the goal. Especially on two occasions where the ball hit the post in just a minute. Miku was first thereupon Arango. And last but not least, the de Martino remained one ejection Santana least for a second yellow, but failed to capitalize Vinotinto.

Venezuela stood at the gates of the first final of Copa America in its history, but we must congratulate them for their great role in the tournament, its growth and its commitment to football. For Paraguay, it only remains to check if fortune continues to accompany them in the end, or even this is enough to subdue the Uruguayan team, a priori clear favorite.

Follow me on Twitter | @ danigle