From the start, Costa Rica showed their determination to fight for a spot in the quarterfinals, quickly taking the lead with two goals within the first seven minutes.
Team captain Francisco Calvo opened the scoring with a header from close range in the third minute. Shortly after, 19-year-old Josimar Alcocer extended the lead with a remarkable solo effort, capping it off with a long-range shot that found the back of the net.
Despite their early success, Costa Rica's chances of advancing were jeopardized early in the second half. Paraguay's Mathias Villasanti broke through the defense to set up Ramon Sosa, who scored with a powerful shot into the top corner, recording his first goal for the national team. This goal reduced Costa Rica's lead and dampened their hopes of progressing.
Towards the end of the match, Costa Rica faced a scare as Paraguay nearly equalized from a corner kick in added time. However, Costa Rican goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira showcased his reflexes with a crucial fingertip save, securing the victory for his team.
Ultimately, Costa Rica's effort to overcome the goal difference and rely on other results to qualify was not realized, leading to their elimination from the tournament. Costa Rica secured a 2-1 victory over Paraguay on Tuesday in their final match of the Copa America Group D. Despite the win, Costa Rica did not advance to the quarterfinals, finishing third in their group as a result of Brazil's 1-1 draw with Colombia.
Colombia topped the group with seven points, followed by Brazil with five points, which allowed them to progress as the runners-up. Costa Rica concluded their campaign with four points, while Paraguay was eliminated without securing a win in their three matches.
