Paraguay are in sight of the second phase of the World Cup after goals from Enrique Vera and Cristian Riveros gave them a 2-0 victory against Slovakia in Group F.

It was just the result coach Gerardo Martino was looking for after the draw with reigning world champions Italy in their opening game.

Vera made the breakthrough in the 27th minute after a spell of sustained pressure at the Free State Stadium. Paraguay then squandered a number of good chances to extend their advantage before Riveros added a second with five minutes to go.