Atenas and 12 de Junio Ready to Host South American Futsal Championship

Paraguay's futsal scene is gearing up as Deportivo Atenas of Tacumbú and 12 de Junio of Barrio Jara prepare to host the South American Championship Zone South. The prestigious tournament, organized by the South American Futsal Confederation (Conmebol), kicks off on July 28.

The championship, now in its 45th edition, is divided into North and South zones, with the top teams advancing to a final round. This year's South Zone will feature a competitive lineup including Palermo and San Miguel from Uruguay, SAF Talismán and Cotas Jr. from Brazil and Bolivia respectively, and Deportivo Churros from Chile, alongside the two Paraguayan representatives.

The tournament will be held at the "Luis Óscar Giagni" coliseum within the Sol de América club facilities. The opening day's schedule includes matches between Churros FC and Furia Cruceña, Talisma and Palermo, Deportivo Atenas and San Miguel, and 12 de Junio and Cotas Juniors. General admission for the first stage is set at 10,000 Paraguayan guaranis.

Adding an intriguing subplot to the regional competition, Deportivo Atenas recently delivered a resounding 11-1 victory over 12 de Junio in a local Copa de Oro match. This dominant performance by Atenas raises concerns for 12 de Junio as they face their domestic rivals again in the upcoming South American Championship, highlighting a significant disparity in form between the two Paraguayan clubs heading into the continental tournament.