Newcastle United star Miguel Almiron continued his brilliant start to Copa America last night as Paraguay drew 1-1 with Argentina.
Almiron had been out of action for two months after suffering a hamstring injury during April's 3-1 win over Southampton.
Nonetheless, the former Atlanta United star helped to transform Newcastle's season as they pulled clear from the relegation zone after his arrival on deadline day during the January transfer window.
And despite his lack of recent game-time, Almiron picked up where he left off on Tyneside and was at his creative best during Paraguay's opening group game, registering an assist in the 2-2 draw with Qatar at the Maracana Stadium.
Not to be content with that, Almiron registered his second assist of the competition during a man of the match display at the Mineirao Stadium in Belo Horizonte.
Newcastle fans know all about the 25-year-old's blistering turn of pace and it was on full display last night. Almiron picked up the ball inside his own half and blitzed his way down the left flank leaving two Argentina defenders in his wake. Once he got to the byline, he delivered a low cross which was expertly finished by Richard Sanchez.
Many fans were quick to joke that he had outclassed Lionel Messi - widely regarded as the best footballer on the planet - but the Barcelona star did have his say in the contest when he converted from the penalty spot to equalise in the 57th minute.
The draw means that Paraguay are in a qualification spot heading in to the final game of the group against Colombia but will need to win to guarantee their passage in to the quarter-finals.
Paraguay take on Colombia at 8pm (BST) on Sunday evening.
