Uruguay blank Paraguay 3-0 for 15th Copa title

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP):

Uruguay won the Copa America for a record 15th time after beating Paraguay 3-0 yesterday from two goals by Diego Forlan and another from Luis Suarez.

Suarez scored in the 12th minute while Forlan hit the target in the 42nd and final minute of the match.

"We played as a group," said Suarez, who was selected as the best player of the tournament. "I think when groups are united like this, everyone together and going for the same thing, you can get things done."

The victory gives Uruguay their first Copa America title since 1995. The small country of 3.5 million also reached the World Cup semi-finals a year ago, surpassing the performance of continental powers Brazil and Argentina.

Argentina and Brazil were upset again in the quarter-finals of this tournament. Uruguay ousted Argentina on penalties and Paraguay eliminated Brazil, also in a shoot-out.

Surprise-filled tournament

Argentina have won the title 14 times, Brazil eight. Brazil won four of the past five titles.

Uruguay were the clear favourites going into the final, wrapping up a tournament filled with surprises.

Not only had Brazil and Argentina been sent home early, but Venezuela reached the third-place match on Saturday before losing 4-1 to Peru. Those two countries have been the weakest in the region in recent years, but they suddenly look formidable going into regional World Cup qualifying later this year.

Uruguay's squad featured 20 of the 23 players they took to the World Cup a year ago, showing teamwork and unselfish play with none of the vast star power of Argentina or Brazil.

"The important thing was getting started well," said Suarez, who had four goals - one fewer than Peru's Paolo Guerrero. "With two goals in the first half, I think it was very difficult for them to come back."

Suarez gave Uruguay the lead in a match they dominated in the opening minutes. Receiving a pass in the area, the Liverpool forward beat defender Dario Veron to score from a deflected left-footed shot that went in off the far post behind goalkeeper Justo Villar.