MATCH 08 PREVIEW : IT'S DO OR DIE FOR PERU AGAINST VENEZUELA

Hosts of Copa América, Peruvians will have to take all their chances in the match against Venezuela, in Lima, this Friday. After a hard-fought 2-all tie in the opening encounter against Bolivia, Peru are back to the Nacional Stadium, for the match scheduled for 7:45 pm, in need of victory to avoid premature elimination.

Coach Paulo Autuori¿s greatest challenge is to keep the emotional balance of his men, shattered by the poor performance in the first game and by a break-up with the local press. Players have avoided interviews after a newspaper published that midfielder Solano and defender Rebosio arrived drunk at the team¿s training camp. Rebosio made insulting gestures to the reporters at the entrance of the camp and nobody wants to make any statements, an act that has shocked the press.

The result of the last encounter between Peru and Venezuela is something to be forgotten: a goal-less draw, at the same Nacional Stadium, for the 2006 World Cup Qualifiers.

Midfielder Palacios, who came on in the second half against Bolivia and scored the equalizer, will start the match replacing Maestri, who plays for Brazilian Vitoria.

Venezuela¿s situation is also uncomfortable. Beaten by Colombia in the curtain-raiser for Copa América, the side wants to prove their recent ascent in South-American football and manage their second win in the history of the competition ¿ the first came in 1967, a 3-nil victory over Bolivia, in their first participation.

Manager Richard Paez, who disliked the first performance of his men against the Colombians, hasn¿t confirmed any changes on his team, but should choose a more compact formation, with the entrance of midfielder Rojas in place of striker Morán.

Peru: Oscar Ibáñez - Jorge Soto, Santiago Acasiete, Miguel Rebosio, Walter Vilches - Juan Jayo, Carlos Alberto Zegarra, Nolberto Solano, Roberto Palacios - Jéfferson Farfán and Cláudio Pizarro. Coach: Paulo Autuori

Venezuela: Gilberto Angelucci - Luis Valenilla, José Manuel Rey, Alejandro Cichero, Jonay Hernandez - Jorge Rojas, Leopoldo Jiménez, Miguel Mea Vitali, Ricardo Paez, Juan Arango - Alexander Rondon. Coach: Richard Páez

Venue: Estádio Nacional, in Lima (PER)

Referee: Rúben Selman (Chile)

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MATCH 07 PREDICTION : COLOMBIA VS BOLIVIA

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MATCH 07 PREVIEW : COLOMBIA CHALLENGE BOLIVIA IN SEARCH OF QUALIFICATION

Colombia might end this Friday as the first team to qualify to the quarterfinals of Copa América. For this to happen, they must beat Bolivia at the Nacional stadium, in Lima, scheduled for 5:30 pm, local time.

Coach Reinaldo Rueda¿s team will take to the field in full force. Keeper Henao and defender Gonzales, who were exhausted after the win against Venezuela in their opening match, have already recovered and are fit to play, although Rueda said he will wait until ¿the very last minute¿ to confirm his starting lineup.

Colombians are afraid of having to face true ¿hell¿ in the last fixture in Group A, when they take on Peru, in Trujillo. The hosts might be in desperate need of a win in the last match, and Rueda believes this situation could harm his side immensely. Therefore, the manager is determined to secure qualification in anticipation. He states that he respects the Bolivians, who left a fine impression in the clash against Peru.

Bolivian coach Ramiro Blacut stated that his side need a more winning mentality in order to be one of the eight best teams in the Copa América. After opening a 2-nil lead against Peru, the team succumbed to the pressure of the hosts and allowed them to draw level.

Despite his dissatisfaction with his men, Blacut will field the same first-choice players that played in the opening match. His only doubt is midfielder Limbert Pizarro, injured in the ankle, who trained normally and is confirmed.

Colombia: Juan Carlos Henao - Gonzalo Martínez, Andrés Gonzalez, Andrés Orozco, Gustavo Victoria - Abel Aguilar, Jhon Viáfara, Jairo Patiño, David Ferreira - Tressor Moreno and Sergio Herrera. Coach: Reinaldo Rueda.

Bolivia: Leonardo Fernandez - Sergio Jaúregui, Ronald Arana, Ronald Raldes, Lorgio Alvarez - Luis Cristaldo, Limbert Pizarro, Rubén Tufiño, Limberg Gutiérrez - Miguel Mercado and Joaquín Botero. Coach: Ramiro Blacut.

Venue: Estádio Nacional, in Lima (PER)

Referee: Pedro Ramos (Ecuador)

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MATCH 06 RESULT : BRAZIL 1 CHILE 0

Goal: Luis Fabiano 45/2

MATCH 06 REPORT : BRAZIL DEFEAT CHILE IN THE LAST MINUTE

When the game seemed to be heading towards a goal-less draw, opportunistic Luis Fabiano headed in the winner that clinched a 1-nil victory for Brazil in their opening match in the Copa América, in Arequipa. This result places Carlos Alberto Parreira´s team in the drivers seat in Group C, alongside Paraguay, who also secured a 1-nil win on their debut.

The Brazilian national team had the better of the early exchanges, squeezing the Chileans, however, they never really gave keeper Alex Varas any trouble. Chile broke on the counter and startled Brazil in their first attacks. On 23 minutes, midfielder Edu brought Rodrigo Valenzuela down in the box. Mexican referee Marco Rodriguez granted the penalty. Sebastian Gonzalez converted the spot-kick, ruled out by the referee for encroachment. As the Chilean striker retook the penalty-kick, he saw the ball fly over the crossbar, squandering the chance to put Chile in the lead. This incident put the Brazilian defenders on alert. The side fell back in their ranks a little more and only created another opportunity on 36 minutes, when Alex struck from outside the box.

After the break, coach Juvenal Olmos replaced Gonzalez, who had missed the spot-kick, for Luis Jimenez. The swap didn´t help the Chilean side turn the pressure on Brazil. Soon after, Parreira put Diego and Ricardo Oliveira on the team, replacing Dudu Cearense and Adriano. The Santos midfielder gave the team a new pace and they almost scored on 63 minutes, through Alex. On 74 minutes, Ricardo Oliveira nearly opened the scoring from distance. Chile only threatened Brazil on 75 minutes, with Mancilla forcing keeper Julio César to a huge save. On 90 minutes, after two debatable plays (which saw Brazilian players pleading for a penalty), Brazil got the deadlock breaker. Alex with the corner-kick and striker Luis Fabiano, who had done very little thus far, heading in the winner. It was the striker´s second goal against Chile in their two last encounters with the Brazilian squad.

The standout of the match, Luis Fabiano, explained the difficulties encountered by the Brazilian squad and how it felt to clinch victory. "The ball wouldn´t reach me. The players were too apart and I was alone up front. We found several obstacles, since the team was mounted recently. I´m glad I scored the goal that will bring confidence to Brazil."

Brazil: Júlio César, Mancini (Maicon 35/2), Luisão, Juan and Gustavo Nery; Dudu Cearense (Diego 17/2), Renato, Edu and Alex; Luís Fabiano and Adriano (Ricardo Oliveira 17/2). Coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira

Chile: Alex Varas, Moisés Villarroel, Luis Fuentes, Rafael Olarra and Rodrigo Pérez; Rodrigo Valenzuela, Clarence Acuña, Rodrigo Meléndez and Jonathan Cisternas (Luis Jiménez, halftime); Milovan Mirosevic (Patrício Galaz 38/2) and Sebastián González (Hector Mancilla 20/2). Coach: Juvenal Olmos

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MATCH 05 RESULT : PARAGUAY 1 COSTA RICA 0

Goal: Julio dos Santos (pen) 41/2º

MATCH 05 REPORT : PENALTY KICK AT THE DEATH SECURES VICTORY

A spot-kick earned by midfielder Julio dos Santos, on 86 minutes, sealed a hard-fought win by Paraguay over Costa Rica in their opening match in Group C of Copa América. The fixture, held in Arequipa, south of Peru, presented a low technical level. The Paraguayans, represented basically by their Pre-Olympic team, created few chances throughout the match. Costa Rica, with debutant coach Jorge Luis Pinto at the helm, showcased an unattractive football.

In the first half, Paraguay tried their luck with long-distance strikes, that flew far from Ricardo Gonzalez¿s goal. Paraguayan striker Nelson Haedo created the best chances for Carlos Jara Saguier¿s side. Costa Rica took a long time to find their form and only threatened Edgar Barreto¿s goal on 22 minutes, when midfielder Steven Bryce¿s effort from the right forced the keeper to make the save at his second attempt. Thereafter, both teams refused to move forward and the stalemate was a fair result for the football skills shown in the first period.

In order to improve his side, Paraguayan manager Carlos Jará, who has coached the top team since replacing Aníbal Ruíz, swapped an unproductive Jorge Britez for Julio dos Santos. The change had little effect. Only in the dying minutes, after a fine individual effort by Fredy Bareiro, Paraguay managed to break the deadlock. After storming into the box, the striker was tripped by defender Mauricio Wright. Referee Oscar Ruiz conceded the penalty-kick, converted by Julio dos Santos. The 1-nil win puts Paraguay at the top of the table in Group C, which also boasts Brazil and Chile.

Manager Carlos Jará is glad with the tactical work done by his team. "Paraguay worked well in defense. At the end, they moved forward and earned a penalty that rewarded our efforts. Victory was an important step, but there´s still a long way to go."

Costa Rica: Ricardo González, Try Bennett, Luis Marín, Mauricio Wright e Leonardo González; Cristian Badilla, Douglas Sequeira, Walter Centeno (Carlos Hernández 30/2) e Steven Bryce; Ronald Gómez (Alonso Solis 13/2) and Andy Herrón (Álvaro Saborío 13/2). Técnico: José Luis Pinto

Paraguay: Diego Barreto, Emilio Martínez, José de Vaca (Pedro Benítez 16/2), Carlos Gamarra e Ernesto Cristaldo; Edgar Barreto, Carlos Paredes, Jorge Brítez (Julio dos Santos intervalo) e Aureliano Torres; Diego Figueiredo (Fredy Bareiro 22/2)and Nelson Haedo. Técnico: Carlos Jara

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MATCH 06 PREDICTION : BRAZIL VS CHILE

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MATCH 06 PREVIEW : BRAZIL AND CHILE TRY TO SHOO AWAY GENERAL MISTRUST

With teams totally modified in relation to the ones playing in the World Cup Qualifiers, Brazil and Chile will try to prove they are capable of winning the Copa América.
Closing the first round of Group C in Copa América, Brazil and Chile will clash at 9:30 pm (local time), at the UNSA stadium, in Arequipa, south of Peru. Brazil, depleted of Ronaldo, Ronaldinho Gaúcho, Kaká, Dida and Roberto Carlos, will present a completely revamped squad. Despite the unquestionable talent of some players, Brazilian and local fans alike are suspicious about the chances of the national team.

Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira, who stated that this will be the toughest test for the Brazilians in the tournament, lost a few first-choice players even before the start of the competition. Striker Julio Baptista and midfielder Kleberson are injured and will miss the match against Chile. Adriano and Dudu Cearense will replace them respectively. São Paulo striker Luis Fabiano, top scorer in the Libertadores Cup, is the main hope of goals for Brazil, who had their worst performance ever in the tournament in 2001, when they were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Honduras.

Juvenal Olmos¿ Chilean team brings a lot of modifications too in regards to the squad that held Brazil to a tie in the last round of the Qualifiers, in the beginning of June. From the starting players in that 1-all draw in Santiago, Navia, Maldonado and Vargas will not be playing. Besides, the Chilean manager won¿t be counting on the injured Mark Gonzalez. Cisternas will take his place.

In the Copa América, Brazil and Chile have met 18 times. The Brazilians amassed 13 wins to Chile¿s 3, with two draws. Brazil scored 50 goals and Chile 24. In their last meeting, Brazil were 1-nil victors, in 1999, in the Ciudad Del Este, Paraguay, with Ronaldo scoring the winner. From that side, only midfielder Alex was on the pitch.

Brazil: Júlio César, Mancini, Luisão, Juan and Gustavo Nery; Dudu Cearense, Renato, Edu e Alex; Luís Fabiano and Adriano. Coach: Carlos Alberto Parreira

Chile: Fabián Varas, Cristián Álvarez, Luis Fuentes, Rafael Olarra and Rodrigo Pérez; Rodrigo Valenzuela, Clarence Acuña, Rodrigo Meléndez and Jonathan Cisternas; Milovan Mirosevic and Sebastián González. Coach: Juvenal Olmos

Venue: Estádio Monumental da Universidade Nacional de Santo Agustin (Arequipa-PER)

Referee: Marco Rodríguez (MEX)

Assistant Referees: Winston Reategui (PER) and Freddy Viltty (BOL)

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MATCH 05 PREDICTION : PARAGUAY VS COSTA RICA

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MATCH 05 PREVIEW : PARAGUAY MAKE THEIR DEBUT AGAINST COSTA RICA

Paraguay open Group C of Copa América taking on the challenge by Costa Rica today, at 5:30 pm (local time) at the UNSA stadium, in Arequipa, south of Peru. The Paraguayans, coached by Carlos Jara Saguier, from the Under-23 squad, boast a totally renewed team in relation to the one taking part in the 2006 World Cup Qualifiers. With the basic formation of the side who earned a berth at the Olympics, Paraguay will search for their first win ever against Costa Rica.

For their opening match, Paraguay have doubts regarding the starting line-up. The first one, according to manager Carlos Jara Saguier, is in goal, where Justo Villar and seasoned Diego Barreto battle for the position. In attack, young Nelson Haeda must pass the fitness test to get the approval from the doctors to play. In case he can¿t play, Fredy Bareiro will take his place.

Manager Jorge Luis Pinto will make his debut at the helm of the Costa Rican team. The Colombian-born coach took the reins two weeks ago, replacing US Steve Sampson, sacked after a poor start in the first round of the CONCACAF Qualifiers. Jorge Luis Pinto will not be counting on superstar Paulo Cesar Wanchope, and for this reason, Costa Rica¿s expectations for this Copa América are not the best. The coach will be placing his bets on veteran defender Mauricio Wright and striker Ronald Gomes to try to cause an upset, as in 2001, when they ended fifth in the competition.

In their last encounter, Costa Rica beat Paraguay 2-1, in San José, Costa Rica, in March 2003.

Costa Rica: Ricardo González, Try Bennett, Luis Marín, Mauricio Wright and Leonardo González; Cristian Badilla, Douglas Sequeira, Walter Centeno and Steven Bryce; Ronald Gómez and Andy Herrón. Coach: José Luis Pinto

Paraguay: Diego Barreto (Justo Villar), Emilio Martínez, José de Vaca, Carlos Gamarra and Ernesto Cristaldo; Edgar Barreto, Carlos Paredes, Jorge Brítez and Aureliano Torres; Diego Figueiredo and Freddy Bareiro (Nelson Haedo). Coach: Carlos Jara

Venue: Monumental of Universidade Nacional of San Agustin Stadium (Arequipa-PER)

Referee: Oscar Ruiz (COL)

Assistants Referee: Dember Perdomo (COL) and Juan Sulca (PER)

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MATCH 04 RESULT : ARGENTINA 6 ECUADOR 1

Goals:
Cristian González (pen 4´/1º)
Fabián Delgado (16´/2º)
Javier Saviola (18´/2º, 28´/2º, 32´/2º)
Andrés D'Alessandro (39´/2º)
Luis González (43´/2º)

MATCH 04 REPORT : ARGENTINA PUT ON A FOOTBALLING SPECTACLE ON DEBUT

The Argentinean national team confirmed their status as hot favourites by making short work of Ecuador with a 6-1 demolition. The match was sealed in the second half, when the Argentineans made the most of the superior talent of their players to score 5 goals. The standout of the match was Saviola, who claimed a hat-trick. The other goals were scored by Cristian 'Kily' Gonzalez (penalty), D'Alessandro and Luis Gonzalez. Delgado scored the consolation for Ecuador.

With his job at stake, coach Marcelo Bielsa sent his team forward, with midfielder Luis Gonzalez and striker César Delgado wide open on the right flank, Saviola breaking down the middle and Number 10 D¿Alessandro and Kily Gonzales arriving from behind for support. This way, the team scored the opener on 4 minutes, with Kily converting a spot-kick earned by Delgado. After squandering three incredible chances with Saviola and Delgado, Argentina took the foot off the gas and Ecuador offered some resistance in the final 15 minutes of the first half.

In the second half, coach Hernan Dario Gomez fixed his team¿s marking system and Ecuador managed to hold back the Argentinean momentum. Trying to be too perfectionist, the Argentinean strikers squandered several opportunities and allowed Ecuador to counter-attack. On 17 minutes, Agustin Delgado, who came on in the first half, stormed into the box and struck in between the defenders to equal the scores. This goal spurred Argentina into action and within 15 minutes, Javier Saviola's star shone brightly, with the player scoring a hat-trick. The match became a stroll in the park and there was time still for D¿Alessandro and Luis Gonzales to add their names to the scoresheet and seal a 6-1 victory.

Argentina: Roberto Abbondanzieri - Gabriel Heinze, Roberto Ayala, Javier Zanetti, Juan Pablo Sorín - Luis González, Javier Mascherano, Andrés D´Alessandro - César Delgado (Mauro Rosales), Javier Saviola (Carlos Tevez) and Cristian González (Clemente Rodríguez). Coach: Marcelo Bielsa.

Ecuador: Geovanny Ibarra - Ivan Hurtado, Ulises de la Cruz (Edison Méndez), Giovanny Espinoza, Neicer Reasco - Andrés Obregon, Edwin Tenorio (Franklin Salas), Vicente Ambrossi, Marlon Ayoví - Ebelio Ordoñez (Agustín Delgado) and Cléber Chalá. Coach: Hernán Darío Gómez.

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MATCH 03 RESULT : MEXICO 2 URUGUAY 2

Goals:
Carlos Bueno (42´/1o)
Ricardo Osorio (47´/1º)
Pavel Pardo (23´/2o)
Paolo Montero (41´/2o)

MATCH 03 REPORT : WITH A MAN DOWN, URUGUAY HOLD MEXICO TO A DRAW

With a man down, Uruguay managed to earn a 2-all draw at the death with Mexico. Uruguay opened the scoring with Carlos Bueno, but soon after Mexico leveled the scores through Ricardo Osorio. After the break, Mexico reversed the scoreline with a piledriver by Pavel Pardo. Uruguayan coach Jorge Fossati swapped a shy Dario Silva for Ramon Morales, who was sent off in one of his first moves. Despite the man disadvantage, Uruguay managed to restore parity on 87 minutes after a header by defender Paolo Montero. Now, Uruguay will lock horns with Ecuador on Saturday 10th, while Mexico will meet Argentina on the same date.

In the first half, both teams played with caution since it was their debut in the Copa América. Both sides created few opportunities and heavy marking defined the first half. Uruguay broke the deadlock on 42 minutes, when the Mexican defense was caught off-guard for the first time, allowing Diego Forlan to nod the ball to Carlos Bueno, who fired Uruguay into the lead 1-nil. When the referee was about to end the first half, Osorio tried to supply a cross and lobbed keeper Luis Barbat to draw level for Mexico.

The second half started with the same script, with both sides missing a lot of passes. With heavy traffic in midfield, the solution was to attempt shots from long range. On one of these attempts, Mexico reversed the scoring with a blistering strike by Pavel Pardo from outside the box. This goal kicked Uruguay into action and coach Jorge Fossati pressed his team forward. On 80 minutes, Carlos Bueno almost brought the teams level. But on 82 minutes, Ramon Morales, who had just come on, was given his marching orders for a crude challenge. Mexico tried to capitalize on the extra man and moved forward, but after a corner-kick from the right side, defender Paolo Montero rose higher than the Mexican defenders and secured a 2-all tie.

Uruguay: Luis Barbat, Joe Bizera, Paolo Montero, Dario Rodríguez, Gustavo Varela, Marcelo Sosa, Cristian Rodríguez, Omar Pouso (Vicente Sánchez), Carlos Bueno, Diego Forlán (Juan Martin Parodi) and Dario Silva (Richard Morales) Coach: Jorge Fossati.

Mexico: Javier Sánchez, César Davino, Rafael Márquez, Ricardo Osorio, Salvador Carmona, Héctor Altamirano (Jaime Lozano), Pavel Pardo, David Oteo, Octavio Valdez, Jared Borgetti, Francisco Palencia (Adolfo Bautista). Coach: Ricardo Lavolpe.

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MATCH 04 PREDICTION : ARGENTINA VS ECUADOR

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MATCH 04 PREVIEW : ARGENTINA DEFEND TRADITION ON THEIR DEBUT

For Argentina, there¿s more than just 3 points at stake on their debut in Copa América 2004, there¿s an 80-year tradition they must defend. The record title winner in the competition alongside Uruguay, both with 14 cup glories, the Argentineans haven¿t won the longest running football tournament in the world since 1993, in Ecuador. To end this 11-year drought, coach Marcelo Bielsa called up all his first choice players. The team that will take to the pitch this Wednesday, at 7:45 pm local time, (9:45 pm, Brasilia time), to face Ecuador at the Elias Aguirre stadium in Chiclayo is basically the same that represented the country in the recent 2006 World Cup Qualifiers. Bielsa¿s future at the helm of the national squad is also at stake. He has placed his bets on a side that is second in the Qualifiers, on 12 points, behind Brazil, but has performed poorly in the two previous fixtures (losing 3-1 to Brazil and being held to goal-less draw by Paraguay).

In fact, the coach has been severely criticized since the poor campaign at the 2002 World Cup finals, when the Argentineans were ousted in the first phase.
But the manager will make a few tests. During the Wednesday match, Bielsa might give up the 3-4-3 formation frequently used by Argentina, but will keep an attack-minded outfit, using the traditional 4-3-3, with two men on the flanks. Besides, he dismissed Crespo from Copa América duty and called up Saviola, the Barcelona frontman. Tevez, from Boca Juniors, will be on the bench. Young D¿Allesandro, who plays in the Bundesliga, will be the maestro and will don the number 10 jersey that made Maradona a legend.

Ecuador will also boast their top players in this Copa América. Manager Hernan Dario Gomez is studying alternatives for the Qualifiers, but dreams of victory in the opening match against Argentina (under his command, Ecuador lost three times in as many matches) and knows that a positive result is key for his chances of qualifying to the quarterfinals.

Argentina: Roberto Abbondanzieri - Javier Zanetti, Roberto Ayala, Gabriel Heinze, Juan Pablo Sorín - Luis González, Javier Mascherano, Andrés D'Alessandro - César Delgado, Javier Saviola and Cristian González. C: Marcelo Bielsa.

Ecuador: Giovanny Ibarra - Ulises de la Cruz, Iván Hurtado, Giovanny Espinoza, Néicer Reasco - Edwin Tenorio, Alfonso Obregón, Edison Méndez, Cléber Chalá - Franklin Salas and Agustín Delgado. C: Hernán Darío Gómez

Venue: Elías Aguirre Stadium (Chiclayo-PER)

Referee: Carlos Amarilla (PAR)

Assistant Referees: Nelson Cano (PAR) and Cristian Júlio (CHI)

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MATCH 03 PREDICTION : MEXICO VS URUQUAY

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MATCH 03 PREVIEW : URUGUAY TRY TO CHASE AWAY A CRISIS AGAINST MEXICO

Recover the self-esteem of Uruguayan football is the main goal of Jorge Fossati, manager of the ¿Celeste¿, in the match to be held this Wednesday against Mexico, which opens Group B of Copa América 2004. The fixture will take place in the city of Chiclayo, in Peru, at the Elias Aguirre stadium, with capacity for 23 thousand supporters, with kick-off scheduled for 5:30 pm local time, 7:30 pm (Brasilia time).

Uruguay are having an awful run in the 2006 World Cup Qualifiers, sitting in the last to bottom position, on just 7 points (one ahead of basement boys Bolivia), after defeats in their last three encounters against Venezuela (3-nil), Peru (3-1) and Colombia (5-nil) ¿ the first two played at their own Centenario Stadium, in Montevideo.

This Tuesday, during the first training session on Peruvian territory, Fossati didn¿t allow the presence of the press or fans. He just praised the opponents and spoke of his goals in this Copa América. ¿México is a great, dynamic squad with quick offensive moves. All I¿m interested in is recovering Uruguay¿s footballing status,¿ stated the coach soon after training.

Mexico are at the other end of the spectrum. In the beginning of June, they hammered Dominica twice, 10-nil and 8-nil, at the start of their participation in the CONCACAF Qualifiers for the 2006 World Cup. The weakness of the opponents prevented the fans from celebrating the results. A poor performance in the Copa América could end the reign of Argentinean-born coach Ricardo Lavolpe. Hugo Sanchez, former striker and idol of the national team in the 80¿s, could be his replacement.

The coach said he intends to field a team who plays with ¿logic, dynamism and balance¿. Due to the high winds that could hit the stadium during the match, he wants his defenders to prevent Uruguay from using their main weapon: the balls crossed towards the box.

Uruguay: Fabián Carini - Paolo Montero, Joe Bizera, Darío Rodríguez - Gustavo Varela, Omar Pouso, Marcelo Sosa, Diego Forlán, Cristian Rodríguez - Darío Silva and Carlos Bueno. C: Jorge Fossatti

Mexico: Oswaldo Sánchez - Rafael Márquez, Duilio Davino, Salvador Carmona - Ricardo Altamirano, Gerardo Torrado, Pavel Pardo, Jesus Arellano, Octavio Valdéz - Francisco Palencia and Jared Borgetti. C: Ricardo Lavolpe

Venue: Estádio Elías Aguirre (Chiclayo-PER)

Referee: Gilberto Hidalgo (PER)

Assistant Referees: Alfonso Orlandini (PER) and Plácido Chuello (VEN)

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MATCH 02 REVIEW : PERUVIAN PLAYERS REGRET THE DRAW

JEFERSSON FARFAN striker
"It was a bitter pill to swallow because we could have won, but we expect to improve in the next matches." "It was important that we fought back, because it¿s not easy to play when you¿re 2 goals behind."

PAULO AUTUORI coach
"I liked the boys attitude. We should have won easily, but we made things hard for ourselves."

CLAUDIO PIZARRO midfielder
"We created several opportunities to score, but didn¿t capitalize on the chances. Bolivia made the most of their two chances and were more efficient. But the most important aspect was the fact that we fought back. The players were very focused, but there are mistake we must fix. Regarding what happened in the match, one point was valuable, but we should¿ve won."

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MATCH 01 REVIEW : VENEZUELANS BLAME REFEREE MARCIO REZENDE

Venezuela¿s debut was not what they expected. They lost 1-nil to Colombia, a result they feel was very unfair. A doubtful penalty conceded by Brazilian referee Márcio Rezende de Freitas demolished all the work done by coach Richard Paéz.
How was the debut?

Extremely disappointing. For starters, referee Rezende gifted Colombia a penalty. Secondly, our team haven¿t found the rhythm in the championship yet. We¿re paying the price of not having played friendlies before the Cup. We almost equalized at the end of the match, but the Colombians managed to defend well.

Do you get the feeling that you were defeated?

No, we never leave the pitch defeated. I repeat that the referee harmed us with this non-existent penalty. We didn¿t make the most of the opportunities we created.

How does a coach take a defeat like this one in such a short competition as this one?

We have to win both matches ahead of us and not think about anything else.

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MATCH 02 RESULT : PERU 2 BOLIVIA 2

Goals: Joaquín Botero 35/1, Lorgio Alvarez 12/2, Claudio Pizarro (pen) 22/2 e Roberto Palacios 41/2

MATCH 02 REPORT : PERUVIANS DRAW LEVEL WITH BOLIVIANS ON THEIR DEBUT

Peru began their campaign in the Copa América giving the local fans a scare after putting on a huge feast during the opening ceremony just before the match. After going 2 goals down against a surprising Bolivian team, Paulo Autuori´s men mounted a comeback and managed to earn a less frustrating result for the enthused supporters.

In the first half, after setting the pace, Peru suffered a terrible blow, when Joaquín Botero showcased his poacher´s instincts as Bolivia broke on the counter. With a 1-nil lead, the Bolivians, the basement boys in the South American Qualifiers for the 2006 World Cup, sat deep. Peru, who kicked off with three strikers (Maestri the late substitute for Palacios) created a few opportunities, but were unable to beat goalkeeper Leo Fernandez.

After the break, the match maintained the same pace, but after a dreadful defensive blunder, especially by keeper Oscar Ibañez, Bolivia added a second. Left-back Lorgio Alvarez rounding Ibañez before tucking the ball away. Trailing by two, Paulo Autuori decided to make changes and put Palacios and Mendonza on the pitch. The replacements paid off as Peru created clear chances. On 67 minutes, Vilches earned a spot-kick and Pizarro halved the deficit. Spurred on by the home fans, the hosts carried on pressing forward and were rewarded with the equalizer on 86 minutes. Midfielder Palacios scoring a blockbuster with an individual effort to gain a share of the spoils on 2-all.

Peru: Oscar Ibáñez, Santiago Acasiete, Miguel Rebosio, Jorge Soto and Walter Vilchez; Nolberto Solano (Roberto Palacios 15/2), Juan Jayo, Carlo Zegarra (Aldo Olcese 33/2) e Flavio Maestri (Andrés Mendoza 15/2); Jefferson Farfán and Claudio Pizarro.

Bolivia: Leonardo Fernández, Sergio Jáuregui, Ronald Arana, Ronald Raldes and Lorgio Álvarez; Limbert Pizarro (Juan Carlos Arce 40/2), Rubén Tufiño, Luis Cristaldo and Limberg Gutiérrez (Gonzalo Galindo 17/2); Miguel Mercado (Richard Rojas 27/2) e Joaquín Botero.


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MATCH 01 RESULT : COLOMBIA 1 VENEZUELA 0

Goal
Tressor Moreno (pen) (21/1°)

MATCH 01 REPORT : GOOD START FOR COLOMBIA

Colombia beat Venezuela 1-nil in the curtain-raiser of the 41st edition of the Copa América, held in Peru. The winner was scored by striker Tressor Moreno from a spot-kick on 21 minutes.

Colombia lead Group A, on 3 points. The first round in Group A will also see Peru take on Bolivia, at 10:15 pm, Brasilia time. Colombia¿s next fixture will take place on the 9th, in Lima, against Bolivia. On the same day, Venezuela meet hosts Peru.

Coach Reinaldo Rueda¿s side had the better of the match early on, moving the ball quickly, always using triangulations and the speed of strikers Tressor Moreno and David Ferreira. So much so that within 5 minutes of play, they threatened goalkeeper Angelucci with a strike and on 10 minutes, another shot flew over the crossbar.

Keeping possession on the Venezuelan half of the field, the Colombians moved towards Angelucci¿s goal. The keeper brought Tressor Moreno down for a penalty after an individual effort. Despite a fine strike from the spot, Brazilian referee Márcio Rezende de Freitas ordered the penalty to be retaken due to encroachment. At his second attempt, Moreno struck on the opposite side to put Colombia ahead 1-nil.

After the opener, the Colombians closed their ranks, but a lackluster Venezuela was unable to threaten Henao¿s goal. Colombia settled for the narrow victory and moved the ball around with the help of midfielder Jorge Patiño¿s fine performance. Just before the interval, Colombia came close to scoring again, when midfielder David Ferreira squandered a chance with only keeper Angelucci to beat.

Determined to claw their way back, the Venezuelans took the initiative in the second half. They turned the screw and on 50 minutes, after two corner-kicks, manager Richard Páez¿s men scored a goal, disallowed by Márcio Rezende de Freitas because striker Ruberth Morán was offside.

Venezuela continued moving forward, trying their luck from distance, with Paez, on 56 minutes, and Arango, on 63 minutes, who forced the Once Caldas keeper Henao to show his skills.

Colombia managed to make the match a more even affair after coach Rueda¿s substituted a tired Tressor Moreno for striker John Viáfara, also a player from the current Copa Libertadores champions.

After the hour, the match became a bit more confused in midfield. Only on 84 minutes, after a free-kick from the left wing, Venezuelan midfielder Arango outstretched Henao, who managed to avoid the leveler. In the follow-up, Venezuela almost scored with a header.

Colombia hit back immediately, and after a fine play near the sidelines, the ball crossed the middle of the box from a back-pass, but Patiño misfired, squandering a chance to double the lead. Soon after, David Ferreira¿s effort also caused trouble for Angelucci.

There was little action from then on until the last second of the match, when Venezuela almost drew level in the opening match of the Copa América Peru 2004.

Colombia :
Juan Henao, Gonzalo Martínez, Andrés Orozco, Andrés González, Gustavo Victoria, Oscar Díaz, Abel Aguilar, Jairo Patiño, David Ferreira, Tressor Moreno and Sergio Herrera

Venezuela :
Gilberto Angelucci, José Luís Vallenilla, José Manuel Rey, Alejandro Cichero, Jonay Hernandez, Leopoldo Jiménez, Miguel Mea Vitali, Ricardo Páez, Juan Arango, Alexander Rondón and Ruberth Morán


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COPA AMERICA 2004 PREVIEW : GROUP A

Group A: All to play for with Peru and Colombia

Whatever the tournament, the host country and the defending champions are always serious candidates, and this year's Copa América is no exception. However, with Group A also containing a much improved Venezuelan side as well as the unpredictable Bolivians, neither Peru nor Colombia will have an easy passage to the quarter-finals.
Reinaldo Rueda's new-look Colombian side features a host of young players led by Sergio Herrera, the in-form striker who impressed so much in January's Olympic qualifying tournament in Chile.

"We know we have to defend our country's sporting pride at this tournament, but we also know that we have a squad of players capable of doing that," said the coach.

Peru are also very clear about what they want to achieve in the Copa América: "Peruvian football needs to win a major title to shake off the loser mentality that has attached itself to the team. Winning would be a huge boost to our self-esteem and of course it would earn us a place in the FIFA Confederations Cup in Germany 2005, where Peru could compete with the best teams from around the world."

Venezuela will be hoping to build on the promising form that they have shown to date in the South American qualifiers for Germany 2006. Manager Richard Páez is expected to field much the same side used in their recent internationals. Bolivia, meanwhile, will be hoping that Ramiro Blacut can shuffle his pack and find a winning eleven after recently being reappointed as national team coach. Bolivia's principal absentee will be the suspended José Valdivieso.

COPA AMERICA 2004 PREVIEW : GROUP B

Group B: Argentina look to get back on course

Without a senior title for 11 years, Argentina will be keen to end the drought and also win over some of the dissenting voices among their fanatical following. Their coach, Marcelo Bielsa, demonstrated his intent, when he summoned some of his top European-based players, most notably Andrés D'Alessandro and Javier Saviola, both of who were part of the Albiceleste side that won the FIFA World Youth Championship in Argentina in 2001.

"We know that the team is not at it's best just now, but we're hoping that with a few minor adjustments we can come up with a side that will put us in contention," said Bielsa.

Joining Argentina in Group B, will be Mexico - who last month scored 18 goals in two games against Dominica - a resurgent Ecuadorian side with Hernán Darío Gómez at the helm, and the beleaguered Uruguayans, who come into the tournament reeling from two successive losses under new manager, Jorge Fossati.

COPA AMERICA 2004 PREVIEW : GROUP C

Group C: Under-strength Brazil to be put to the test

In light of the long and exhausting season played by most of his top players, Brazil's manager Carlos Parreira decided to bring an under strength squad to Peru, just as he did in the FIFA Confederations Cup in France in 2003. The manager will be hoping for a better result than on that occasion and still expects to be involved in the latter stages of the competition.

"We will be making changes to the side right throughout the competition. I'd like to get a look at all the players, though that may not be possible. Will we be affected by the absence of Ronaldo? My answer to that is that I have confidence in Luis Fabiano, Adriano, Love and Oliveira," said Parreira.

The current world champions - already guaranteed a spot in the FIFA Confederations Cup Germany 2005 - are joined in Group C by Paraguay, Costa Rica and Chile. The Albirrojos, under the management of Uruguayan Carlos Jara, are seen as favourites to come out of the group along with Brazil.

Chile, with two wins and a draw from their last three FIFA World Cup™ qualifiers, will be hoping to spring a surprise or two of their own. The fourth team in Group C is Costa Rica, who were invited to participate following the withdrawal of the USA. The competition will be Jorge Pinto's first outing in charge of the Ticos, after last week's dismissal of the American-born coach Steve Sampson.

FIRST STAGE MATCH SCHEDULE

Date------Group-Telecast Time-----Match City
Wed 07/07 A-----6.20am - 08.30am--Venezuela vs. Colombia Lima
Wed 07/07 A-----9.05am - 11.15am--Peru vs. Bolivia Lima

Thu 08/07 B-----6.20am - 08.30am--Mexico vs. Uruguay Chiclayo
Thu 08/07 B-----8.35am - 10.45am--Argentina vs. Ecuador Chiclayo

Fri 09/07 C-----6.20am - 08.30am--Costa Rica vs. Paraguay Arequipa
Fri 09/07 C-----8.35am - 10.45am--Brazil vs. Chile Arequipa

Sat 10/07 A-----6.20am - 10.45am--Colombia vs. Bolivia Lima
Sat 10/07 A-----8.35am - 10.45am--Peru vs. Venezuela Lima

Sun 11/07 B-----6.20am - 08.30am--Uruguay vs. Ecuador Chiclayo
Sun 11/07 B-----8.35am - 10.45am--Argentina vs. Mexico Chiclayo

Mon 12/07 C-----3.50am - 06.00am--Brazil vs. Costa Rica Arequipa
Mon 12/07 C-----6.05am - 08.15am--Paraguay vs. Chile Arequipa

Tue 13/07 A-----6.20am - 08.30am--Venezuela vs. Bolivia Trujillo
Tue 13/07 A-----8.35am - 10.45am--Peru vs. Colombia Trujillo

Wed 14/07 B-----6.20am - 08.30am--Mexico vs. Ecuador Piura
Wed 14/07 B-----8.35am - 10.45am--Argentina vs. Uruguay Piura

Thu 15/07 C-----6.20am - 08.30am--Costa Rica vs. Chile Tacna
Thu 15/07 C-----8.35am - 10.45am--Brazil vs. Paraguay Arequipa

COPA AMERICA 2004 GROUPING

A
Peru
Colombia
Venezuela
Bolivia

B
Argentina
Uruguay
Mexico
Ecuador

C
Brazil
Paraguay
Costa Rica
Chile

"COPA AMERICA 2004 ON CHANNEL 5"

The oldest National Teams tournament in the World, the Copa America was created in 1916, when Argentina decided to organize a soccer tournament to celebrate the first centennial of its independence.

Although at first it was not played regularly, it turned into the most important national team tournament at a continental level.

Since 1987, it is held every two years. The first winner of this cup was Uruguay the latest title-holder was Colombia, whereas both Argentina and Uruguay are the national teams with more titles to their credit. All countries affiliated to the South America Confederation are qualified to play in this competition and nowadays two national teams from other parts of the world are invited to take part.

This year, the tournament reaches its 41st edition and will be held in Peru. 12 countries (10 in South America with the remaining 2 being Mexico and Costa Rica) will vie for the coveted crown to be the soccer kingpin of South America.

The Copa America tournament is considered by many to be the ‘unofficial’ World Cup of South America.


Did You Know?:
- Peru is the host nation.
- Colombia is the defending champions. They beat Mexico 1-0 in 2001.
- Argentina and Uruguay topped the tournament chart with 14 titles each.
- Brazil has won the titles 6 times.

"PUTTING ON A FEAST OF FOOTBALL"

What are expectations like in Peru with just a matter of days to go before kick-off?
Initially, we set ourselves three objectives: to organise a sporting spectacle that took in as much of Peru as possible, to improve the infrastructure of the stadiums with a view to the future, and to attract as many fans and tourists here as possible. We are proud to say that we have done our part. The tournament will be played in seven different cities, all of which have had improvements to their stadiums.

What are you hoping the Championship will do for Peru?
That it will give a much-needed boost to our economy. A competition of this calibre, with teams of the highest level, will be a big draw for many people. We expect the fans and other visitors to bring in welcome revenue to Peru.

Were you a bit upset by the decision of some teams not to bring their top players to Peru?
So far, only Brazil have told us officially that they will be resting some of their big-name stars. Obviously, we would have preferred it had they brought their strongest possible squad, but having said that, the team they are bringing will still feature some great players. Ronaldo was in Lima recently, and he told us that he desperately needs a break. I can totally understand that.

Can you already sense the expectancy among the people in the street?
In the provinces, yes, everybody is talking about the Copa América. It is to be expected really, as many of these cities will be hosting top class football for the first time in their newly renovated stadiums. Take Chiclayo, for example, where the people could be watching Argentina take on Uruguay. On the other hand, in Lima, a city that is used to hosting qualifiers and international games, the buzz is less perceptible. It is, after all, a capital with more than 8 million inhabitants.

How will this year's competition be different from previous editions?
It's 47 years since we last hosted the Copa América, which is why we have concentrated all our efforts and spent a huge amount of energy on bringing something special to this great competition. When you do that, then nobody can say that this year was better than that year or whatever. We know that we have a spectacular opening ceremony lined up, with great local artists and a very interesting choreography.


Are you worried about security at the competition?
No, not at all. Peru is a very quiet country as far as terrorism and such things are concerned. What we do have here in Peru are some political conflicts that have resulted in the occasional hunger strike and industrial action. However, we haven't seen any major incidents or outbreaks of violence that could in any way threaten the tournament.

Will the staging of this tournament help in the preparations for the FIFA U-17 World Championship to be held here in 2005?It will be an important indication of the country's readiness, even if the two competitions are quite different. As far as infrastructure is concerned, we'll be leaving an important legacy with the refurbished stadiums. There remains one more stadium to be built, which will be in the small northern city of Iquitos beside the Amazon river.

What are you expecting from Peru in terms of football?
Well, I'm 72 now, and I don't have the same passion for the game as I did when I was a youngster. Nonetheless, I'm hoping that Peru perform well, win a few games, and if possible lift the trophy. That would be something special for the Peruvian people who haven't had much success recently. To be South American champions is nice at any time, but to win it in front of your own people would be a dream for Peru.

So tell us, who do you fancy for the title?
In a survey carried out in Peru, 60% of the people felt that Brazil were the favourites. Quite a way behind were Argentina and Brazil. But personally speaking, I would have to go for Peru. If we do well, then the stadiums will be full and it will give a huge boost to the whole country.

Mexico and Costa Rica were invited to play in this year's tournament. How were they chosen?
Mexico, by virtue of being the CONCACAF champions, and Costa Rica, to replace the USA, who declined to take part. That was a shame really, because it's always great to have big teams like that which pull in bigger crowds, and boost TV deals and tourism.
Costa Rica still deserve our full respect, as they are a team that have played in the FIFA World Cup™ finals on more than one occasion.

The final of the Copa América will be played on 25 July. How do you think you will be feeling on the following day, the 26th?
Hopefully relaxed, with the satisfaction that comes with having organised a successful tournament. There might be some hiccups along the way, but let's hope they are minimal. The only people who never make mistakes are those that never do anything.