Paraguay want to strengthen atop

The game between Paraguay and Venezuela opens round 8 at the South American Qualifiers; the team coached by Gerardo Martino aims to remain at the top of the standings.
Paraguay position before facing Venezuela at the South American Qualifiers can't be better: the 1-1 draw against Argentina allowed them to remain on top at the standings and wait for their next opponent which, even though they are not as weak as they used to be, they wouldn't be big deal for the team coached by Gerardo Martino.

The only doubt in Martino's mind is whether he should include Salvador Cabaņas in the lineup despite the striker is suffering from a right-thigh strain. The striker himself said he feels better, but he's not sure whether he would be able to play. The same happens with Roque Santa Cruz, but it is said they both would be included in the lineup.

As for Venezuela, they lost to Peru in last round; beyond the bad result, the team coached by Cesar Farias had a disappointing performance, with no goal chances; moreover, they never clinched a win in Asuncion.

Farias said he will keep the lineup secret, but it is known aces Juan Arango and Giancarlo Maldonado will be some of the startes.

Probable lineups:

Paraguay: Justo Villar; Dario Veron or Carlos Bonet, Julio Manzur, Paulo da Silva, Aureliano Torres; Edgar Barreto, Victor Caceres, Cristian Riveros; Nelson Haedo; Roque Santa Cruz, Salvador Cabaņas or Dante Lopez. Coach: Gerardo Martino.

Venezuela: Renny Vega; Gerzon Chacon, Jose Rey, Pedro Boada, Jonay Hernandez; Tomas Rincon, Miguel Mea Vitali, Ronald Vargas, Jorge Rojas; Juan Arango, Giancarlo Maldonado. Coach: Cesar Farias.

Referee: Hector Baldassi (ARG).
Stadium: Defensores del Chaco.
Time: 20 (ET).


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