February 20, 2026 – 21:47
Rubio Ñu Stuns Libertad with Late Goal, Raising Questions for Arce’s Future
Libertad Falls at Home, Concern Grows
Rubio Ñu secured a significant victory yesterday, defeating Libertad 1-0 at La Huerta in the sixth round of the Apertura tournament. A late goal by Estiven Pérez marked the first win for Rubio Ñu in the competition and has once again highlighted the concerning form of Libertad.
Libertad, under the direction of Francisco “Chiqui” Arce, is currently facing a period of difficulty, lacking both solutions and any visible signs of improvement. As stated in ABC Color, “Libertad fell 1-0 at home against Rubio Ñu and concern is increasing. The team led by Francisco ‘Chiqui’ Arce does not find answers or signs of reaction to get out of the discreet moment it is going through.”
Rubio Ñu’s Tactical Triumph
Despite having a smaller squad, Rubio Ñu effectively neutralized Libertad’s midfield, relying on the experience of players like Rodrigo Rojas, Cardozo Lucena, Willy Mendieta, and Chapa Martínez. The winning goal came in the 88th minute, with Estiven Pérez capitalizing on a defensive lapse.
The match saw Rubio Ñu begin with greater dynamism, successfully disrupting Libertad’s rhythm. Libertad’s performance was described as “subdued,” with Álvaro Campuzano failing to replicate his previous season’s form and Iván Franco offering limited offensive impact.
Pressure Mounts on Francisco Arce
The defeat has intensified scrutiny on manager Francisco Arce. Even the presence of national team coach Gustavo Alfaro at the stadium failed to inspire a turnaround in Libertad’s performance. Hugo Martínez, previously a national team contender, has also been struggling to find his form.
As Popular.com.py noted, the result has “left the atmosphere hot in the Gumarelo camp.”
Match Details
Libertad: Rodrigo Morínigo; Iván Ramírez, Diego Viera, Néstor Giménez and Matías Espinoza; Iván Franco, Álvaro Campuzano, Lucas Sanabria and Hugo Martínez; Federico Carrizo and Lorenzo Melgarejo. DT: Francisco Arce.
Rubio Ñu: Franco Frágueda; Rodi Ferreira, Javier Vallejos, Brian Blasi and Rodrigo Alborno; Ángel Cardozo Lucena, Juan Rodrigo Rojas, Fernando Martínez and William Mendieta; Juan José Giménez and Mauricio Roldán. DT: Gustavo Morínigo.
Goal: 88´ Estiven Pérez (RÑ).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who scored the winning goal? Estiven Pérez of Rubio Ñu.
- What is the current concern surrounding Libertad? The team is struggling to find form and solutions under manager Francisco Arce.
- Was the national team coach present at the match? Yes, Gustavo Alfaro was in attendance.
What do you suppose of Libertad’s current situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!