Vera gives Paraguay 1-0 lead over Slovakia after 30 minutes of Group F World Cup match

Paraguay leads Slovakia 1-0 after 30 minutes

BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — Paraguay leads Slovakia 1-0 after 30 minutes in their Group F match at the World Cup.

The Paraguayans broke through when Enrique Vera met Lucas Barrios’ pass with a one-time shot in the 27th minute.

Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz took only three minutes for his first effort on goal at Free State Stadium. His shot from the edge of the penalty area deflected off Slovakia’s Martin Skrtel and was pushed away by goalkeeper Jan Mucha for a corner kick.

Paraguay coach Gerardo Martino gave Santa Cruz his first start of the tournament in a three-man attack alongside Nelson Valdez and Lucas Barrios.