Copa América: USA top group as Colombia stunned by Costa Rica

The United States saw off Paraguay 1-0 and progressed to the Copa América quarter-finals as winners of Group A on Saturday after Costa Rica stunned already-through Colombia 3-2.

The US, hosts of the tournament in its centenary edition, go on to face the second-placed team in Group B. As it stands, Brazil top that group ahead of Peru and Ecuador, with Haiti already out.

Dempsey's goal the difference

Forward Clint Dempsey converted a low cross from Gyasi Zardes in the 27th minute as Jürgen Klinsmann's men had the better of the early exchanges.

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However, the Americans went down to 10 men shortly after half-time when right-back DeAndre Yedlin picked up two yellow cards within the space of a minute for aggressive tackles.

"The boys showed a lot of heart, especially after that red card," Dempsey said. "We showed a lot of character and we're proud to advance to the next round."

The United States looked set to fall behind in the 11th minute when Paraguay had a three-on-one break but defender John Brooks chased down Miguel Almirón to deliver a terrific sliding challenge and knock the ball out of play.

Goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who made key saves from Jorge Benítez and Almirón in the 82nd minute, paid tribute to his defence.

"The guys in front of me were fantastic," he declared. "Every now and then it's up to the goalkeeper to come up with the save and I was lucky enough to do that tonight."

Colombia beaten by Costa Rica

In the later Group A game, Costa Rica's Johan Venegas scored in the second minute before Frank Fabra pulled Colombia level four minutes later.

Fabra turned villain in the 34th minute by scoring an own goal and Celso Borges put the Costa Ricans 3-1 up just before the hour mark.

Colombia's Marlos Moreno made it 3-2 with 17 minutes left but they could not find the equaliser.

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