The Slovakians are trying their best to eliminate the bitter aftertaste of Winston Reid's last-minute equaliser that ensured they would fail to seize the opportunity of their must-win game against New Zealand. Reid rather torpedoes the pre-match assertions of Stanislav Sestak that the individual errors that often cost Slovakia precious points had been cut out. He was speaking too soon. Since they face Italy last, Slovakia may have to force victory in the Free State Stadium and are likely to replace Erik Jendriksek with Miroslav Stoch in midfield. 

There seems to be some disagreement in the Paraguayan camp as to how they should approach this fixture. The manager, Gerardo Martino, suggested that two more draws may be enough to see them through to the knockout phase of the competition which sounds a dreadfully unadventurous strategy. However, midfielder, Cristian Riveros , who has just signed for Sunderland, is urging a far more aggressive strategy, with Roque Santa Cruz likely to return to lead the attack, although they will have to retain possession and use the ball more aggressively than they did against Italy. 

Only the opening exchanges will how damaged Slovakia's morale has been by the failure to overcome New Zealand. Paraguay should have the resources to force a victory however Slovakia perform, although their natural caution is likely to get the better of them, especially with what should be a straightforward fixture with New Zealand to finish. Verdict: Draw.