FC Nacional Asunción 2–1 Club Libertad Asunción: Nacional Stun Libertad in Clásico Showdown

In a thrilling Paraguayan Primera División encounter at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco, FC Nacional Asunción defeated league leaders Club Libertad Asunción 2–1 on May 25, 2026. The result reshuffled the title race and handed Nacional a famous victory over their historic rivals.

Match Overview

Libertad entered the match on an eight-game unbeaten run, but Nacional came out with intensity from the first whistle. After an evenly fought first half, the home side took control in the second period with a clinical display of finishing. Libertad pulled one back late but could not find an equaliser.

Key Moments

• 18' – Nacional goal: A speculative long-range shot from midfielder Ricardo Benítez curled into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
• 57' – Nacional second: A swift breakaway saw striker Ángel Silva finish calmly after a through ball from Fabricio Duarte.
• 82' – Libertad goal: A header from a corner by defender Héctor Villalba gave Libertad hope.
• 90+4' – Missed chance: Libertad’s Luis Caballero blazed over the bar from six yards out in stoppage time.

Tactical Story

Nacional’s game plan focused on soaking up pressure and hitting Libertad on the counter. The home team’s midfield trio, marshalled by Mario Salinas, disrupted Libertad’s rhythm and forced errors. Libertad dominated possession (64%) but lacked accuracy in the final third.

Standout Players

• Ricardo Benítez (Nacional): Scored a wonder goal and worked tirelessly in midfield.
• Ángel Silva (Nacional): His pace and finishing were a constant menace to the Libertad defence.

Table Impact

The victory moved Nacional into third place in the Primera División standings, while Libertad’s lead at the top was cut to just three points. The title race is now wide open with several challengers within striking distance.