Copa America 2019: 3 Reasons why Argentina drew with Paraguay

Messi opened his account for the tournament
Messi opened his account for the tournament

#2 Introduction of Sergio Aguero and the intervention from VAR

Aguero played a part in winning the penalty in the second half
Aguero played a part in winning the penalty in the second half

Luis Scaloni was under severe pressure to deliver a result against Paraguay following Argentina's disappointing defeat to Colombia during the opening game in Group B last weekend.

And things did not go according to the script for La Albiceleste in the first half, after they conceded the opening goal to Paraguay, courtesy of Richard Sanchez, who scored just eight minutes before half time.

As such, the Argentina head coach was forced to introduce Sergio Aguero, who was dropped to the bench for the game, at the half time interval in search of goals.

Despite struggling to hit the ground running against Colombia, Aguero started positively against Paraguay and contributed significantly, after replacing Roberto Pereyra.

The Manchester City marksman was heavily involved in the build-up towards the penalty that was awarded by VAR in the 57th minute, when it was adjudged that Ivan Peris had handled the ball inside the area.

Aguero was the orchestrator-in-chief that laid down the foundation for the penalty, as he chested down and laid the ball off to Lautaro Martinez, whose shot had struck Peris' arm on the way to hitting the crossbar and going out for a corner.

And although none of the players seemed to have spotted or appealed for the feint touch, VAR was quick to communicate with the referee and the decision was awarded in favour of Argentina, who clawed their way back into the game through Lionel Messi, yet again.

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Edited by Alan John