Paraguay striker confident of victory

Roque Santa Cruz is revelling in his status as a World Cup goalscorer and has no fear of Spain.

Used to playing big matches with Bayern Munich, Santa Cruz impressed in Paraguay’s 2-2 draw with South Africa in which he headed the first goal.

And he said, ahead of tomorrow’s match against the Spaniards in Jeonju: ‘‘We can match any team and that includes Spain. I don’t think we will lose.’’

Defeat will make it difficult for Paraguay to progress, and Santa Cruz has warned his team-mates not to underestimate the Spanish.

‘‘Spain as a team are not great,’’ he explained, ‘‘but they have players that can determine a match.

‘‘It is important to play with intelligence, to try and defend well and get a goal to get the victory.’’

Spain are top of Group B, after their 2-0 win over Slovenia, and another three points would guarantee their place in round two.