Costa Rica vs Paraguay Predictions

Costa Rica vs Paraguay Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews in the Copa America. Needing a win to advance to the Copa America quarter-finals, Costa Rica face Paraguay at Q2 Stadium on Tuesday. Read on for our free predictions and tips.

Copa America | Group Stage – Jul 3, 2024 at 2am UK at Al Saqr Stadium

Don’t Have a William Hill account? Click below to claim this offer👇

Costa Rica vs Paraguay Predictions

Will Costa Rica’s Desperation Propel Them Past Paraguay in a Do-or-Die Clash?

In a crucial Copa America clash at Q2 Stadium, Costa Rica face Paraguay, with the former needing a win to keep their quarter-final hopes alive. A challenging 3-0 loss to Colombia has placed Costa Rica in a precarious position, needing a victory and a favourable result in the Brazil vs Colombia match to advance. Meanwhile, Paraguay have already been eliminated following a 4-1 defeat to Brazil but will be looking to salvage some pride in their final group game.

Match Analysis: Costa Rica

Costa Rica entered the tournament with high hopes but have struggled to find their footing. After a promising start with a draw against Brazil, Los Ticos were humbled by Colombia, unable to register a single shot on target. This lack of offensive firepower has been a recurring theme, as they have yet to score a goal in the competition. The side’s defensive solidity has also been questioned, especially after conceding a penalty against Colombia, which marked the end of a four-match run without conceding.

Costa Rica’s struggle to create scoring opportunities is evident in their statistics. With an average of 3.5 shots per game and none on target, their attack appears toothless. Additionally, their possession rate is a mere 31%, highlighting their inability to control matches. The midfield, led by players like Orlando Galo and Jefferson Brenes, has failed to provide the necessary support to their forwards, resulting in a significant disconnect between the lines.

Match Analysis: Paraguay

Paraguay have faced their own set of challenges, primarily defensive lapses that have seen them concede six goals in two matches. Their last encounter against Brazil was particularly harrowing, ending in a 4-1 defeat. Despite these setbacks, they have shown glimpses of potential, particularly in their attacking play, with Julio Enciso and Omar Alderete providing some bright moments.

Paraguay’s attacking statistics are more encouraging than Costa Rica’s. They average 13 shots per game with 4.5 on target, indicating a more proactive approach in the final third. However, their defence has been porous, with an average of three goals conceded per game, compounded by critical errors leading directly to goals. The absence of suspended midfielder Andres Cubas will further strain their defensive structure.

Expected Lineups and Tactical Overview

Costa Rica’s Probable Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Patrick Sequeira
• Defenders: Jeyland Mitchell, Juan Pablo Vargas, Francisco Calvo
• Midfielders: Haxzel Quiros, Orlando Galo, Jefferson Brenes, Ariel Lassiter
• Forwards: Alvaro Zamora, Joel Campbell, Anthony Contreras

Costa Rica’s formation is likely to focus on defensive solidity, with a three-man backline supported by wing-backs in Quiros and Lassiter. The midfield trio will be crucial in breaking up Paraguay’s attacks and launching counter-attacks, primarily through Campbell’s experience and Contreras’ pace.

Paraguay’s Probable Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Carlos Morinigo
• Defenders: Gustavo Velazquez, Fabian Balbuena, Omar Alderete, Alan Espinoza
• Midfielders: Hernesto Caballero, Mathias Villasanti
• Forwards: Damian Bobadilla, Julio Enciso, Ramon Sosa, Adam Bareiro

Paraguay will likely adopt a more attacking 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to exploit Costa Rica’s defensive vulnerabilities. Enciso’s creativity and Bareiro’s physical presence upfront will be pivotal in their offensive efforts, while the midfield duo of Villasanti and Caballero will be tasked with breaking down Costa Rica’s plays.

Key Player Duels

Joel Campbell vs. Fabian Balbuena: Campbell’s experience and dribbling skills will be up against Balbuena’s defensive acumen. Campbell’s ability to draw fouls and create chances will be crucial for Costa Rica’s attack.

Julio Enciso vs. Francisco Calvo: Enciso’s agility and goal-scoring threat will test Calvo’s defensive organisation. Calvo will need to stay alert to Enciso’s movements both on and off the ball.

Gameplay Dynamics

Given the stakes, Costa Rica are expected to play with urgency, pushing forward to create chances, while also needing to be wary of Paraguay’s counter-attacks. Paraguay, free from the pressure of progression, might adopt a more relaxed approach, potentially making them dangerous on the break.

Tactical Strengths and Weaknesses

Costa Rica:

• Strengths: Defensive organisation, quick transitions
• Weaknesses: Lack of offensive threat, poor possession control

Paraguay:

• Strengths: Attacking potential, physicality in defence
• Weaknesses: Defensive errors, inconsistency in midfield

Managerial Critique

Gustavo Alfaro of Costa Rica has faced criticism for his team’s lack of attacking ingenuity. The conservative tactics have not yielded results, and there is a growing sentiment that a more adventurous approach is needed. On the other hand, Daniel Garnero of Paraguay has shown tactical flexibility but has been let down by his team’s defensive frailties. His inability to shore up the defence might ultimately be his downfall.

Betting Angles and Predictions

Best Bet: Costa Rica to Win

Costa Rica face a must-win situation against Paraguay, which could be the driving force behind their performance. Los Ticos have shown resilience in previous tournaments, and their current predicament will likely see them adopt a more aggressive approach. With Paraguay already eliminated and playing without the same level of urgency, Costa Rica might find opportunities to exploit their defensive weaknesses. The Paraguayan defence has conceded six goals in two matches, highlighting significant vulnerabilities.

Moreover, the absence of Andres Cubas due to suspension further weakens their midfield, providing Costa Rica with an edge in controlling the game. The determination to progress and Paraguay’s defensive lapses make Costa Rica to win a solid bet for this encounter.

Correct Score Prediction: Costa Rica 1-0 Paraguay

Considering the attacking struggles both teams have faced, a low-scoring affair appears probable. Costa Rica, despite their lack of goals so far, will be highly motivated to find the net in this decisive match. Paraguay’s defensive frailties, evidenced by their six goals conceded, provide an opportunity for Costa Rica to break their scoring drought.

However, Costa Rica’s own defensive discipline, having conceded only three goals, suggests they are capable of maintaining a clean sheet against a Paraguayan side that has also struggled to score. The slim margin of 1-0 reflects the anticipated tight contest, with Costa Rica’s pressing need for a win just tipping the balance in their favour.

Goalscorer Prediction: Joel Campbell to Score

Joel Campbell’s experience and attacking prowess make him a prime candidate to end Costa Rica’s goal-scoring woes. With his ability to exploit spaces and his keen eye for goal, Campbell is expected to play a crucial role in this high-stakes match. His inclusion in the starting lineup indicates a strategic shift towards a more offensive approach, leveraging his skills to penetrate Paraguay’s shaky defence.

Campbell’s track record of stepping up in critical moments adds weight to this prediction. Given Paraguay’s defensive lapses and Campbell’s capability to seize opportunities, he is well-positioned to find the back of the net in this crucial fixture.

Corner Prediction: Paraguay to Win More Corners

Paraguay’s attacking statistics suggest they are more likely to earn corners in this match. Averaging 13 shots per game, with 4.5 on target, Paraguay’s direct and aggressive approach often results in corner opportunities. In contrast, Costa Rica have struggled offensively, with fewer shots and none on target, which correlates with a lower number of corners.

Paraguay’s ability to press forward and create chances, despite their defensive issues, gives them an edge in winning more corners. Additionally, their set-piece threats, particularly from players like Omar Alderete, make corners a significant part of their game plan, likely resulting in a higher count against Costa Rica.

Innovative Market Prediction: Total Yellow Cards Over 2.5

The high stakes for Costa Rica and the physical nature of both teams suggest a combative match with several bookings. Costa Rica’s desperate need for a win is likely to see them adopt a more aggressive playing style, increasing the likelihood of fouls and yellow cards. Paraguay, despite being eliminated, will want to avoid leaving the tournament without a point, which could result in a similarly physical approach.

Historical data on both teams show a tendency towards physical matches, and with tensions high, especially for Costa Rica, the prediction of over 2.5 yellow cards seems well-founded. Referees tend to be stricter in such high-stakes games, further supporting this prediction.

Top UK Bookies & Best Sign Up Offers 

Subscribe To Our Newsletter For Exclusive Tips

Want to have exclusive tips from experts tipsters delivered right into your inbox? Subscribe Now To Our Newsletter. We will never spam, we fully respect your privacy!