Luqueño and San Antonio Set for Beach Soccer Showdown: A Glance at Paraguay’s Rising Sport
The stage is set for a thrilling final in the Superliga APF Fútbol Playa as Sportivo Luqueño and San Antonio prepare to battle for the championship title this Sunday at the Mundialista Los Pynandi stadium. The teams advanced after hard-fought semifinal victories on Saturday, setting up a rematch after San Antonio previously defeated Luqueño in the second stage of the league.
Semifinal Recap: A Tale of Close Contests
Sportivo Luqueño secured their spot in the final with a narrow 6-5 win over Recoleta FC. Néstor Medina and Sixto Cantero each scored twice for Luqueño, even as Carlos Carballo led Recoleta with a hat trick. The match was marked by intensity, with Luis Gómez of Recoleta receiving a red card.
The second semifinal was even more dramatic, with San Antonio edging out San Miguel in a penalty shootout after a 5-5 draw. Marciel Pires scored twice for San Antonio, while Maicol Giménez contributed a brace for San Miguel. The penalty shootout ended 4-3 in favor of San Antonio.
The Road to the Final: A Season of Ups and Downs
Sportivo Luqueño demonstrated early dominance, winning the first stage of the Superliga APF Fútbol Playa, defeating San Antonio 8-1. However, San Antonio rebounded to claim the second stage, avenging their earlier loss with a 7-3 victory over Luqueño. This sets up a compelling final, showcasing the competitive balance within the league.
Sunday’s Schedule and What to Expect
The action kicks off with the third-place playoff between Recoleta FC and San Miguel at 6:00 PM local time. The highly anticipated final between Sportivo Luqueño and San Antonio will follow at 7:30 PM.
Fans can expect a high-energy contest, with both teams boasting talented rosters. Luqueño will rely on the scoring prowess of Diogo Catarino and Jesús Martínez, while San Antonio will look to Marciel Pires and Carlos Ovelar to lead the charge.
Key Players to Watch
Jesús Martínez (Sportivo Luqueño): Named the best player in the first stage, Martínez is a key offensive threat for Luqueño.
Marciel Pires (San Antonio): Recognized as the best player in the second stage, Pires is a dynamic force for San Antonio.
Diogo Catarino (Sportivo Luqueño): A consistent goalscorer, Catarino will be crucial in Luqueño’s attack.
FAQ
Q: Where will the final be played?
A: The final will be played at the Mundialista Los Pynandi stadium.
Q: What time does the final start?
A: The final starts at 7:30 PM local time.
Q: Who won the first stage of the Superliga?
A: Sportivo Luqueño won the first stage.
Q: Who won the second stage of the Superliga?
A: San Antonio won the second stage.
Did you know? San Antonio is the 2023 CONMEBOL Libertadores de Fútbol Playa champion.
Don’t miss the action as these two powerhouse teams compete for the Superliga APF Fútbol Playa championship! Stay tuned for updates and highlights.
