Paraguay came from behind against Venezuela in a crucial match for qualification
Won 3-1, secured its second victory, and now leads Group A alongside Brazil.
- Went into halftime trailing 0-1.
- Vallejos scored one goal and assisted another.
Paraguay had a bye in the previous round and secured an important victory against Venezuela, bringing them closer to their dream of reaching the semifinals in the CONMEBOL Copa América Futsal Femenina 2025™.
The first half belonged to Venezuela. In a counterattack at the 9th minute, La Vinotinto took the lead in a key match. Vielma tapped the ball into the net, with no goalkeeper in sight, after a great assist from Magdaleno.
Mike Guerra's team created several chances, including a one-on-one opportunity for Vegas, but failed to extend the lead. La Vinotinto deserved a greater advantage but couldn't capitalize in the first half.
And they paid the price: Paraguay came out with a different attitude in the second half and completely dominated the game. At the 5th minute, a great run by Vallejos led to the equalizer, scored by Romero. A couple of minutes later, a well-executed team play ended with Diana Benítez putting Paraguay ahead.
Vallejos, who was instrumental in the equalizer, scored the third goal to seal the victory for Nadia Rojas' team.
Paraguay will face Brazil, the other group leader, this Wednesday. Meanwhile, Venezuela will take on Ecuador, aiming for a victory to keep their semifinal hopes alive.
Lineups
Venezuela (1): 12- Marinel Argüinzones (Captain), 5- Roraima Vielma, 8- Carla Crespo, 11- Mariangela Magdaleno, 13- Génesis Vegas.
Substitutes: 1- Emily Brito, 2- Verónica da Silva, 3- Cinthia Zarabia, 4- Mariannys Rodríguez, 6- Cristina Rivas, 7- Zharit Fuentes, 9- Francheska Palencia, 10- Yilvi Conde, 14- Adrianny Luna.
Coach: Mike Guerra.
Paraguay (3): 12- Jessica Franco, 2- Verónica Vallejos, 7- Claudia Romero, 8- Lorena Brítez, 10- Paola Brítez.
Substitutes: 1- Sara Silva, 3- Jazmín Armoa, 4- Diana Benítez, 5- Jamila Acosta, 6- Cinthia Arévalo (Captain), 9- Liz Sosa, 11- Nataly Lezcano, 13- Perla Bareiro, 14- Liz Ortíz.
Coach: Nadia Rodas.
Goals:
First half: 9’ Roraima Vielma (V). Halftime score: Venezuela 1-0 Paraguay.
Second half: 5’ Claudia Romero (P), 7’ Diana Benítez (P), 14’ Verónica Vallejos (P). Final score: Venezuela 1-3 Paraguay.
Cards:
Second half: 7’ Yellow card for Diana Benítez (P), 12’ Yellow card for Zharit Fuentes (V).
Main referee: Estefania Pinto (Argentina).
