Columbia v Paraguay Betting Odds

Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo is keen to downplay his team's favourites tag, despite their impressive 23-match unbeaten run. But can they live up to the expectations and make a deep run in the tournament?

Lorenzo's cautious approach is understandable, given the weight of history. As he aptly put it, "the favourites almost never win." It's a mantra that has been proven time and again in the unpredictable world of South American football. Yet, it's hard to ignore the fact that Colombia has been in scintillating form, with convincing victories over the United States and Bolivia in the build-up to the tournament.

The coach's reluctance to be labelled favourites is also a clever ploy to take the pressure off his players. By focusing on each game as it comes, Colombia can avoid getting caught up in the hype and maintain their momentum. After all, as Lorenzo said, "it's not that we're not excited - we are. It's just that we're not going to get carried away."

So, what can we expect from Colombia in their Copa America opener against Paraguay on Monday? Lorenzo has hinted at an attacking approach, saying his team will "try to attack, to be protagonists" and adapt to different situations. This flexibility will be crucial in a group that also features powerhouses Brazil and Costa Rica.

Paraguay, meanwhile, will be eager to spoil the party and cause an upset. With their rugged defensive style and ability to counter-attack, they could prove to be a tricky opponent for Colombia. However, Lorenzo's men have been in impressive form, with a 5-1 thrashing of the United States and a 3-0 win over Bolivia in their warm-up matches.

As the tournament unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how Colombia's unbeaten streak holds up. Will it prove to be a blessing, inspiring confidence and momentum, or a curse, leading to complacency and pressure? One thing is certain - Lorenzo's men will need to stay focused and grounded if they are to make a serious challenge for the title.

In a group that promises to be one of the most competitive in the tournament, Colombia's opening match against Paraguay is a must-watch. Can they live up to their billing and make a statement of intent, or will they fall victim to the curse of being favourites? Whatever the outcome, one thing is for sure - the 2024 Copa America is shaping up to be a thrilling ride.