Date: 2026-07-23 | Competition: Paraguayan Cup | Venue: Estadio Comunidad, Humaitá

Deportivo Humaitá and Encarnacion FC shared the spoils in a tense 1-1 draw in the Paraguayan Cup Round of 16 first leg. The tie remains finely balanced heading into the return fixture at Estadio Villa Alegre in Encarnación.

First Half Battle

The hosts started brightly, pressing Encarnacion high up the pitch. Their efforts were rewarded in the 35th minute when a sweeping move ended with veteran striker Richard Zaracho finishing from close range. Humaitá’s direct approach caused problems for the Encarnacion defence, who struggled to cope with the physicality of the home side.

However, Encarnacion grew into the contest as the half wore on. Midfielder Aldo Maíz twice went close with long‑range efforts, only to be denied by the woodwork on one occasion.

Second Half Encarnacion Response

After the interval, Encarnacion boss Jara made tactical adjustments, pushing his full‑backs higher. The equaliser arrived in the 67th minute when a well‑struck free‑kick from Ronald Roa was headed home by central defender Luis Ayala at the back post. Humaità could have reclaimed the lead late on when substitute Derlis Benítez was played through on goal, but his shot was saved by the legs of goalkeeper Carlos Servín.

What the Result Means

• The away goal gives Encarnacion a slight advantage, but the tie is far from settled.
• Deportivo Humaitá will know they need to score at least once away from home to progress – a task made trickier by the 1-1 draw.
• The second leg promises to be an intense affair with a place in the quarter‑finals at stake.

Paraguayan Cup Context

The Paraguayan Cup is known for producing giant‑killing acts, and both lower‑division sides have already shown they can mix it with stronger opposition. Humaitá, playing in the Tercera División, have defied expectations to reach this stage, while Encarnacion – a Primera División side – are desperate to add silverware to their trophy cabinet.

With the second leg scheduled for next week, all eyes will be on Encarnación to see if they can finish the job in front of their home supporters.