More than 24,000 foreign fans from Argentina and Brazil crossed into Paraguay to attend the Copa Sudamericana final between Argentine Lanús and Atlético Mineiro from Brazil, marking one of the largest single-event influxes of visitors in recent years.
Lanús won the Copa Sudamericana after a tense 0-0 draw with Mineiro in the Defensores del Chaco Stadium, triumphing 5-4 on penalties as goalkeeper Nahuel Losada saved three spot-kicks to seal the Argentine club’s second continental title.
Official migration figures confirm big turnout
According to data released by Paraguay’s National Directorate of Migration, a total of 24,023 24,000 foreign fans entered the country declaring their intention to attend the match held at in Asunción. The breakdown by nationality was starkly dominated by the two finalist nations:
- 12,710 Argentinians;
- 10,993 Brazilians;
- 320 visitors of other nationalities.
The vast majority arrived by land, with the three principal entry points recording heavy traffic in the days leading up to the final:
- Puerto José Falcón: 9,207 entries;
- Friendship Bridge (connecting Paraguay and Brazil): 7,931 entries;
- Silvio Pettirossi International Airport: 6,620 visitors.
Tourism Minister hails economic and image boost
Angie Duarte, Paraguay’s Minister of Tourism, described the figures as proof of the transformative power of major sporting events.
“We exceeded expectations and initial projections,” Minister Duarte said. “The final not only drew thousands of fans, but also repositioned Asunción as an epicentre of South American football and a destination prepared to host major international events.”
She stressed the ripple effect across multiple sectors, noting that hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local commerce all benefited from the sudden surge in demand. “Our capital responded with capacity, hospitality, and enthusiasm,” she added. “This reaffirms that Paraguay is ready to continue hosting events of continental stature.”
Visitors enjoying Asunción
The foreign fans enjoyed cultural and tourist activities on Saturday in preparation for the final. Paraguay’s National Tourism Secretariat promoted historical tours, community experiences, artisan circuits and guided visits so that fans could learn about the identity, culture and heritage of Paraguay.
With proposals such as the “Asunción, Art and History” tour, Chacatours, the Filigree Circuit in Luque, Secrets of the Palace and the Fan Tour, not only the culture and history, but also the enormous talent of the local people was valued in each tour.
Several public institutions also provided their services, such as Essap, which gave away fresh water and deployed trucks and cooling tunnels at various points in the capital for the fans who came to enjoy the sporting event.
Asunción strengthens position in sports tourism market
The successful staging of the Sudamericana decider has further confirmed Asunción’s reputation as a reliable venue for high-profile continental tournaments. Industry observers point out that sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments in the region, bringing not only immediate revenue but also long-term visibility and repeat visitation.
With these results, Paraguay joins a select group of South American capitals capable of managing large-scale football events, ensuring the country remains on the radar of organiser CONMEBOL, and other regional organisers for future finals and tournaments.
