By Costa Rica concluded their Copa America 2024 campaign on a high note, defeating Paraguay 2-1 in their final group stage match. Despite being eliminated from the tournament, Los Ticos put on an impressive performance to secure their first win of the competition.
The match, played at a lively pace, saw Costa Rica take an early lead in the 2nd minute when Francisco Calvo headed home a cross from Joseph Mora following a corner kick. The Central American side doubled their advantage just four minutes later, with Josimar Alcócer firing a right-footed shot from outside the box into the bottom left corner.
Paraguay, also already eliminated from the tournament, struggled to find their rhythm in the first half but came out with renewed energy after the break. Their efforts paid off in the 54th minute when Ramón Sosa pulled one back with a well-placed right-footed shot from the left side of the box, assisted by Mathías Villasanti.
The game was marked by several yellow cards, reflecting the competitive nature of the match despite both teams being out of contention for the quarter-finals. Miguel Almirón and Omar Alderete were cautioned for Paraguay, while Josimar Alcócer, Orlando Galo, and Anthony Contreras saw yellow for Costa Rica.
Paraguay pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, with Julio Enciso and Ángel Romero coming close, but Costa Rica’s defense held firm. The Ticos even had opportunities to extend their lead on the counter-attack.
Notable performances came from Costa Rica’s Warren Madrigal, who was a constant threat up front, and Paraguay’s Julio Enciso, who created several chances for his team. Both sides made multiple substitutions in the second half as they sought to change the game’s dynamics.
While the result doesn’t alter either team’s tournament standing, it provides Costa Rica with a positive note to end their Copa America journey. For Paraguay, the defeat will prompt reflection on their campaign as they look to rebuild for future competitions.
This match serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of Copa America, where even games between eliminated teams can produce exciting football and showcase the depth of talent in South American and invited nations’ squads.
