The dream, a thrashing, and a great miracle—these essential ingredients for Costa Rica’s recipe to reach the Copa América Quarterfinals were in short supply in Austin, where a fiery start led to a narrow 2-1 victory over Paraguay.

The Costa Rican team struck fear with two early goals in the 3rd and 7th minutes, courtesy of Francisco Calvo and Josimar Alcócer, but their momentum waned as Paraguay's team, like a limited boxer, opted to hold off their opponents to avoid a heavier defeat.

Costa Rica needed a big win and for Colombia to thrash Brazil at the same time. Neither the dream came true nor the miracle happened. To make matters worse, Paraguay’s Ramón Sosa scored early in the second half to narrow the gap.

Paraguay could have done more in a Copa América campaign to forget, where they didn’t earn any points. Meanwhile, Costa Rica went home with 4 out of 9 points and the satisfaction of delivering a blow to Brazil in their debut (0-0).