Cerro Porteño striker: 'We are excited for what's next' after Palmeiras win

Cerro Porteño has once again demonstrated the indomitable spirit of the 'garra guaraní,' a term that encapsulates the tenacity and fighting heart of Paraguayan football. Our victory against Palmeiras, a formidable opponent and a favorite in the Copa Libertadores, was not just a win; it was a testament to the character of our players. To achieve qualification with a match to spare is a significant accomplishment, reflecting the dedication and hard work poured into every training session and match.

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Happy. The truth is that it was something we were looking for, to be able to qualify, to be able to get these wins, especially since against these kinds of rivals they are very important. So we are very happy to have achieved the objective, but we know that we still have one more Copa match and we need to finish first.

Jonathan Torres, a key figure in this campaign, articulated the team's sentiment perfectly. His words, echoing the pride of a nation that lives and breathes football, underscore the collective ambition. The celebration upon learning of their advancement to the Round of 16, as described by Torres, was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy – a shared experience that binds the squad and fuels their determination for what lies ahead. This is more than just a game; it's about national pride and the unwavering pursuit of excellence on the continental stage.

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To finish first, to finish first now. We know that we now have a very nice opportunity at home to finish first, to continue on this winning path, and it is fundamental to then have a good preseason for the next semester and be able to face it with everything.

The 'Ciclón' is not merely content with reaching this stage; the focus has already shifted to securing the top spot in the group. This forward-thinking approach, as emphasized by Torres, is crucial for building momentum and confidence. The upcoming home match presents a golden opportunity to solidify their position and carry this winning mentality into the next phase of the tournament and beyond. The 'garra guaraní' is not just a slogan; it's a philosophy that guides Cerro Porteño, proving that passion and grit can overcome even the most daunting challenges. This victory resonates deeply within Paraguay, reminding us of our footballing heritage and the potential that lies within our teams to compete and triumph against the best in South America.

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We have been playing well in the Copa Libertadores. The truth is that we have measured ourselves against the group rivals; it is not an easy group, it is a very even group and we were able to bring out that element that is seen a lot, the 'garra guaraní,' as it is called. And well, it was reflected in the matches and we were able to achieve a good victory.