Paraguay were hopeful ahead of the Copa America 2021 knockout stages until they received some bad news. La Albirroja's superstar, Miguel Almirón will be unable to take part in the crucial match against Peru for a place in the semifinals.
The Newcastle figure has played a pivotal role in the national team since he got first called up in 2015 and the current Copa America was no exception. The No. 10 scored one goal and provided another assist in four group phase matches.
A Premier League player, Almiron became the face of Paraguay, pulling the strings of the team, and being capable of carrying it on his own when needed. Therefore, his absence may hit La Albirroja's continental aspirations.
Why is Miguel Almirón missing the next Copa America 2021 match with Paraguay?
The 27-year-old was forced off the clash with Uruguay on Matchday 5 of Group A, and he has not recovered in time for the quarterfinal-tie. Miguel Almirón will miss Paraguay's game with Peru due to a muscle injury in his left thigh.
Only 31 minutes into the game, Almirón had to leave the pitch in La Albirroja's defeat at the hands of La Celeste. He headed into the bench crying and clearly in pain. Shortly after that, Paraguay confirmed that muscle edema was observed in the posterior aspect of his left thigh.
When will Miguel Almirón recover from his injury?
The Paraguayan national team's medical staff couldn't confirm how long Miguel Almirón will be off the field yet as the official statement read that he will continue to be monitored and undergo further tests.
With him ruled out for the upcoming match, Oscar Romero could take Almirón's place as he is the other playmaker Paraguay can rely on. He also performs as a No. 10 and makes a great partnership with his twin Angel, who frequently makes it into the starting eleven.
