Paraguay, Japan heading into extra time in as both teams try to reach quarterfinals

Paraguay, Japan heading into extra time in WCup

PRETORIA, South Africa — Paraguay and Japan are tied 0-0 and heading into extra time Tuesday as both teams try to advance to the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time.

Paraguay dominated possession, but Japan had the better chances. Midfielder Daisuke Matsui intercepted a poor clearance from the Paraguay defense and his shot from 25 yards hit the crossbar in the 22nd minute.

Paraguay forward Lucas Barrios latched onto a pass ball in the 20th and sidestepped the last defender into the penalty area. But his weak shot went straight at Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima.

The best second-half chance came from Paraguay’s Edgar Benitez, who was stopped by Kawashima.

The winner of the match will face Spain or Portugal in the quarterfinal stage.