Tabarez wary of understrength Paraguay

Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez is refusing to get complacent ahead of Sunday’s Copa America final against Paraguay in Buenos Aires.

Tabarez’s side will enter the final as heavy favourites, as they bid to claim a 15th Copa America title, but the 64-year-old said they will face a stern test from Paraguay, who are yet to win a match in normal time in the tournament.

“I think just about everyone at this level knows how to play against teams that are supposedly superior, this is a part of the game,” Tabarez said.

“Those who think that because they are from some country or because they have a strong history that they will always win titles, then I think they are dreaming too much.”

Star Uruguay striker Diego Forlan was named best player at last year’s World Cup in South Africa, but hasn’t scored for his country since the end of that tournament.

The Atletico Madrid marksman is delighted to have his strike partner Edinson Cavani back in the squad, and is looking forward to the contest.

“We are delighted to be here,” Forlan said. “It’s my first ever final with Uruguay and the truth is I’m relaxed, just resting and getting ready for the game.”

“We know it’s going to be tough but we’re doing everything we can to be ready in the best way possible, to get to the game in good form on Sunday.”

Paraguay, meanwhile, look set to be without injured striker Roque Santa Cruz and defender Aureliano Torres.

Their cause will be further complicated by the absence of coach Gerardo Martino and his assistant Jorge Pautasso from the touchline after both men were banned after a brawl at the end of their semi-final victory over Venezuela.

Martino admitted his side would face a stern test from the in-form Uruguayans.

“Yes, they are probably the best team in the tournament,” Martino said.

“Maybe if you analyse an individual moment there might have been a team that played better, but Uruguay has been a solid for some time and are very confident in what they do.”

“All that they have done is to (do) what they have been doing the last three years, more or less. This is the time and they have come very solidly to play and it should be noted.”