Chilavert's return doesn't go as planned

CHONJU, South Korea (Reuters) -- Jose Luis Chilavert's debut at this World Cup did not go quite as planned Friday, as a mistake from the Paraguay keeper helped consign the South Americans to a 3-1 defeat to Spain.

With the score level at 1-1 in the group B match, Chilavert was left flapping at a Javi de Pedro cross, allowing Fernando Morientes to bundle in from close range.

"Morientes was coming in behind and the ball towards him was perfect," shrugged Chilavert, who missed Paraguay's opening 2-2 draw with South Africa because of suspension.

"They're situations where goalkeepers have to make split-second decisions, to stay back or come out."

Paraguay coach Cesare Maldini refused to blame the 36-year-old keeper, who came in to replace Ricardo Tavarelli.

"Like all players there are always times when you can make mistakes," Maldini said. "It happens."

ONE CRACK

Chilavert, who has eight international goals to his name, did have his eye on becoming the first keeper to score a goal in the World Cup finals.

He took a few free-kicks from long range in the first half before having one crack at goal in the second, a left-foot strike that brought a good save from his opposite number Iker Casillas.

By that stage, Paraguay had surrendered the first-half lead and was desperate for goals to get back into the match.

"We played our game in the first half and went a goal ahead," Chilavert said. "We were in control but Spain made a couple of changes and made things difficult for us."

Chilavert, the Paraguay captain, remained adamant his side could still make the second round, despite its poor start to the tournament.

"The important thing is that we've still got a chance going into the final game against Slovenia, as long as we win," he said.

He added: "I like to win but it's more important to be a good sportsman and I congratulate Spain for their victory.

"They played very well in the second half."

Chilavert's sporting attitude won praise from Casillas, who had reportedly come in for criticism from the Paraguay keeper in the build-up to the match.

The two keepers swapped shirts on their way off the pitch and the brief meeting clearly impressed Casillas.

"I've got his shirt now and I can tell you that he's a great person," the 21-year-old Spanish keeper said after the game.

"Now I've had the chance to get to know him I can say that he's a '10'."

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