Paraguay pride sky high despite Argentina defeat - Diaz

The defeated semi-finalists' coach thinks the 6-1 loss does not take away from their achievements at Copa America 2015

Paraguay coach Ramon Diaz was swelling with pride despite watching his team suffer a 6-1 defeat to Argentina in their Copa America semi-final.
The sides had already met once during the group stage, with Diaz's men producing a memorable comeback to earn a point with a 2-2 draw in their meeting in La Serena.
Their re-match in Concepcion was following the same script, as Argentina led 2-0 before Lucas Barrios pulled a goal back.
But a formidable showing after the break from Gerardo Martino's men ensured the win; Lionel Messi was prominent with three assists and Angel Di Maria scored twice.
Regardless, Diaz said the competition as a whole had been beneficial and remained optimistic about his side's third-place play-off clash with Peru on Friday and beyond.
"We were always looking for the result, but this is the beginning of a process and there is still work to do," the Argentine coach told reporters.
"The team showed great dedication and hard work, so I am proud of this squad. The result may be big, but people in Paraguay have to feel proud of this team.
"This will help us to grow. We have to analyse the tournament, but we are pleased with the group.
"This Copa America is a wonderful experience for everyone. All the national teams have shown growth and a great World Cup qualification process is coming.
"Today, our opponents showed class and potential, but we are already thinking of Peru - we will do our best to get third place.
"I want to thank everyone. We will fight for third place."
Paraguay's task was made all the more difficult after losing both Derlis Gonzalez and Roque Santa Cruz to injury within the opening 30 minutes.
And Diaz thinks the Basel man and quarter-final match-winner will be a particularly key absentee if he is unable to feature in the clash with Peru back in Concepcion on Friday.
"Derlis Gonzalez is one of the most important players we have. The doctor has already told us the seriousness of his injury," Diaz said ominously.