By Larry Henry Jr

Albion attacker Julio Enciso scored his first international goal for Paraguay on Monday night in his Copa America debut.

The 20-year-old pulled one goal back for Paraguay in an eventual 2-1 defeat to Colombia at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.

Enciso, who missed most of the Seagulls season due to a torn meniscus, looks to be back at his best this summer.

Crystal Palace’s Daniel Munoz and Jefferson Lerma scored 10 minutes apart in the first half, giving Colombia a 2-0 advantage heading into halftime. Former Everton attacker James Rodriguez was credited with both assists after a pair of dangerous crosses into the Paraguay box.

However, Paraguay wouldn’t lie down after the interval.

Enciso’s deft right-footed volley in the 69th minute would cut the Paraguay deficit in half.

Ramon Sosa’s cross from the left wing was finished off by Enciso into the bottom-left corner.

It was his first goal for club or country since his award-winning effort on May 24, 2023 against Manchester City.

Paraguay tried to earn a late equalizer, but were unable to do so despite their best efforts. Enciso, who was substituted off before second-half stoppage time, was La Albirroja’s best player on the night, winning ten duels, completing six dribble attempts, and drawing two fouls.

Paraguay’s group stage schedule doesn’t get easier with Brazil opposing them on Friday in Las Vegas.