Paraguay veteran Carlos Bonet has warned his team-mates against the danger of underestimating Italy but also claims the result should not be a foregone conclusion.
Paraguay begin their quest to reach the last 16 of the World Cup for the third time in four tournaments with a clash against holders Italy in Cape Town on June 14 before then facing Slovakia and New Zealand in their final two Group F matches.
Former captain Jose Luis Chilavert has tried to ease fears Paraguay are set for certain defeat by dismissing Italy as an ageing side but Bonet knows they are still a force to be reckoned with.
He said: "We shouldn't despair. We have to play calmly because there are two other games. We have to work in the game and be calm.
"Italy are world champions. We have to promote the good aspects we have.
"Chilavert thinks they are an old team but we know the potential of this team. Our idea is to promote what we have and give a good performance.
"Paraguay are also characterised by strong football and in that we are similar to Italy. Everyone wants to do well in the opener. We will battle."