Libertad Close the Gap on Paraguayan Leaders 2 de Mayo

Libertad returned to winning form in emphatic fashion, beating Rubio Ñu 4-2 on Sunday to tighten the race at the top of Paraguay’s Clausura tournament. The victory lifted the club to 19 points, just two behind leaders 2 de Mayo.

Elvio Vera led the way with a hat-trick, while Argentine midfielder Agustín Manzur also scored for the team coached by former Paraguay international Nelson Haedo Valdez. Javier Vallejos and William Mandieta replied for Rubio Ñu, who remain 10th with eight points.

The leaders had strengthened their position on Saturday by beating San Lorenzo 2-1, but Libertad’s victory ensured the gap did not widen. Olimpia, the reigning Paraguayan champions, also collected three points with a 2-1 win over Trinidense. Hugo Sandoval and returning forward Rodney Redes scored for Olimpia, who moved provisionally into third place with 16 points.

Redes returned to Olimpia last week after a brief spell at Ecuador’s Liga de Quito, where he had been loaned in February. Elsewhere, Ameliano beat Sportivo Luqueño 2-1 through two goals from Cristhian Ocampos, who capitalized on defensive mistakes. Giovanni Bogado scored Luqueño’s penalty. Ameliano moved temporarily into sixth place with 13 points.

The ninth round continues Monday, when fourth-placed Nacional face Cerro Porteño. Cerro, now under new Argentine coach Gustavo Costas, are seeking to revive their campaign and climb the standings. Guaraní will also play Recoleta.