Ameliano and Nacional Start Clausura with a Handshake Draw in Villeta

Sportivo Ameliano and Nacional kicked off their Clausura tournament campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Villeta. The match, held at La Fortaleza del Pikysyry, saw Ameliano dominate large portions of the game and take the lead, only for Nacional to rally and snatch an equalizer.

Ameliano, continuing their strong form from the first semester, dictated the pace against Nacional. With dynamic ball movement and the creative playmaking of Valentín Larralde in midfield, Ameliano consistently pressured their opponents, forcing Nacional to defend deep and rely on quick counter-attacks. The home side created several clear chances, including a powerful shot from Fabián Franco that went just over the bar and a stinging long-range effort from Luis Ayala that required a sharp save from Nacional's goalkeeper, Santiago Rojas.

The breakthrough for Ameliano came early in the second half. A well-worked team move culminated in a precise cross from Fabián Franco, which found Richar Torales unmarked. Torales headed the ball firmly into the bottom right corner, giving Rojas no chance and putting Ameliano ahead. However, Nacional responded effectively. After a corner kick was cleared by the Ameliano defense, Mauro Coronel headed the ball on, and Hugo Adrián Benítez pounced on the loose ball, poking it past goalkeeper Ángel Sánchez to level the score.

Despite Ameliano's control for much of the match, Nacional's resilience paid off. The equalizer came against the run of play, demonstrating Nacional's ability to capitalize on key moments. Both teams will look to build on this result as the Clausura tournament progresses.