Hernan Crespo scored two goals as Argentina trounced the USA 4-1 in their opening Copa America match on Thursday while Paraguay beat Colombia 5-0.

Crespo was the hero for the Albiceleste, scoring early on and netting the winner in the second half.

Eddie Johnson had earned and then converted a penalty within the opening 10 minutes, only for Crespo to answer for Argentina barely two minutes later.

The veteran striker then capitalised on the brilliance of Lionel Messi to secure three Group C points against the recent CONCACAF Gold Cup winners before Pablo Aimar and Carlos Tevez completed the rout.

It was the first defeat for US coach Bob Bradley, who has been in charge of the team since December.

A lacklustre start to the second half featured more possession football by the Argentinians, punctuated by brief bursts on the break by the Americans.

Paraguay romp
Roque Santa Cruz and Salvador Cabanas helped Paraguay to an historic 5-0 triumph over Colombia in the opening match of Group C earlier on Thursday.

Roque Santa Cruz recorded a brilliant hat-trick, while Cabanas came off the bench with five minutes to go to score twice.

Chances were few during the first half as Colombia struggled to find its rhythm and impose itself on Paraguay.

Next Monday, Paraguay will tackle the United States in Barinas, while Colombia will face giant Argentina.