History man: Gerardo Martino, Paraguay coach at World Cup 2010

The Coach: Gerardo Martino (Argentine, 46). Appointed: Feb 2007. WC experience: Player: None. Coach: None.

A former Argentina international, Martino replaced the Uruguayan, Anibal Ruiz. His knowledge and success while coaching Paraguayan clubs made him the best man for the job.

The Country: Paraguay are no strangers to the World Cup, having featured in seven previous tournaments. They secured their place at a fourth-straight World Cup finals with two games to spare after a 1-0 win over Argentina. Nelson Valdez's goal earned his side victory over Diego Maradona's struggling outfit in the South American qualifying group.

Martino says: "In the national team, you work for two possibilities - you can work for having a job or for making history. I want to work for the second option."

Paraguay's current squad is undergoing a transition following the retirement of key players such as Carlos Gamarra, Francisco Arce, Celso Ayala, and goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert. Their under-19 side won the Milk Cup in 2002, 2003 and 2006, and players such as Nelson Haedo Valdez, Julio dos Santos, José Montiel and Oscar Cardozo are thought key to the re-building of the team.

Justo Villar, the Albirroja goalkeeper and captain: "It might look as though we sailed through the qualifying campaign, but nothing could be further from the truth. We led the standings for half the campaign, and then just when we were about to wrap things up, we had a shaky spell, which raised doubts among the fans. That's why we celebrated in style when we finally made it."

Telegraph verdict: With Roque Santa Cruz on board, and with their impressive form in qualifying, Paraguay cannot be discounted as a group threat although they will do well to progress.