Oscar Cardozo misses a penalty for Paraguay

Paraguay boss Gerardo Martino believes his team had a legitimate goal ruled out which proved crucial in their 1-0 quarter-final defeat by Spain.

Nelson Valdez found the net with a close-range 41st-minute finish but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Martino was certain the goal should have counted as striker David Villa netted the winner late on in the game.

"Fifa will apologise tomorrow and everything will be fine," said a sarcastic Martino after the match.

The South Americans stifled Spain's fluid passing game with a spirited defensive display, counter-attacking with pace whenever they had the opportunity.

The European champions displayed none of their usual authority at set pieces, allowing Valdez to tap in a long right-wing cross.

606: DEBATE The penalty awarded to Paraguay should've been retaken as there was 'encroachment' by more than one Spanish player into the box when it was about to be taken london_man

But the striker's celebrations were cut short by the assistant referee's raised flag.

Television replays suggested the Borussia Dortmund player was onside but that his strike partner Oscar Cardozo could have been strayed beyond Spain's last defender.

However, Cardozo spurned a glorious opportunity to put Paraguay in front the 57th minute when his penalty was saved by Iker Casillas.

"We had chances but didn't take them," said a dejected Martino.

"The dressing room is as it should be after a tremendous effort, we have played with all our heart and lost the match at the very end. We played with Spain on an equal footing but we were not lucky, it was not our night.

"I feel very proud and I have congratulated my men in the dressing room and I know everyone in the country feels very proud of the team who has represented them."

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