PARAGUAY will look to a trio of sharpshooters to see them into the second round while New Zealand, surprise contenders for a place in the last 16, are hoping luck favours them at last. The South Americans seemed the better team for much of their opening 1-1 draw with Italy and easily beat Slovakia 2-0 to top Group F ahead of today’s match.

New Zealand, one of the lowest ranked sides in South Africa at 78th in the world and with no big name players, held Slovakia for their first World Cup point and then Italy by the same 1-1 scoreline. As underdogs, a win, or even another draw, may be a bridge too far.

Paraguay are expected to push for goals through Roque Santa Cruz, Nelson Valdez and Lucas Barrios – a striking trio that overpowered Slovakia. Paraguay, who have four points ahead of Italy and New Zealand on two, need only draw to guarantee progress but will be wary of the Kiwis height and prowess at set pieces.

Paraguays Argentine coach Gerardo Martino could slot the fit-again Santa Cruz in behind Barrios and Valdez – a potent attack that would test a New Zealand back four that will again be led by Ryan Nelsen. New Zealand need a win to guarantee qualification but if Italy and Slovakia draw the All Whites could go through with a higher scoring draw.