Sportivo Luqueño punched their ticket to the 2025 Copa Sudamericana group stage after defeating Sportivo Ameliano 2-0 in an all-Paraguayan showdown at the Arsenio Erico Stadium in Asunción. Goals from Elvio Vera (47') and Brahian Ayala (86') sealed the win, marking Luqueño's first victory of the year in the tournament.

Tight Battle with Decisive Finishing

Sportivo Ameliano started strong, dominating the opening 15 minutes, but Luqueño gradually found their rhythm and created danger. One of the best chances came from Julio Báez, whose powerful shot forced a brilliant save from goalkeeper Miguel Ángel Martínez.

The deadlock was broken just after halftime when Elvio Vera struck with a header to put Luqueño in front. The knockout blow came in the 86th minute when Brahian Ayala burst past the defense and fired home a left-footed strike, securing the victory.

What’s Next for Sportivo Luqueño?

Despite sitting at the bottom of the Paraguayan Apertura, Luqueño will now get a chance to compete internationally. Their group stage opponents will be determined on March 17, when the CONMEBOL draw takes place in Luque, Paraguay. Meanwhile, the first phase of the Copa Sudamericana continues through Thursday, with 16 teams advancing from the 32 that started.