In a remarkable debut on the international stage, Las Arpas (“The Harps”) de Paraguay GAA clinched third place at the Almirante Brown Cup in Buenos Aires, hosted by Cuenca del Plata GAA. The Paraguayan Gaelic football club, formed just 15 months ago, competed against established sides, winning two matches and losing two to finish as second runners-up in a field of nine teams.
Gaelic football is a traditional Irish sport blending elements of football, rugby, and basketball. In May 2025, Paraguay GAA clinched a thrilling first Gaelic football victory. The Asunción based team, a blend of local and international players, triumphed over Cuenca de la Plata in Paraguay’s first ever Gaelic football match.
Impressive campaign in first international tournament
Las Arpas, representing Paraguay’s starting Gaelic football scene, notched victories against San Isidro Gaélico (7-2) and Bulfin (9-1), before narrow defeats to Hurling Club A (4-5) and Lombarden (4-6). Player and club founder Mozz Suraphot hailed the achievement at the Almirante Brown Cup as “historical”.
“My feelings are full of pride and surprise: We are very proud of ourselves, and other teams were likely surprised by how good we played,” Suraphot said. “There are also elements of happiness and team spirit in this mix of feelings. After having been training for about 4 months, I really feel like this tournament is something that was worth working for.”
The team went from Paraguay to Argentina with almost 30 players, ranging from Paraguayan, Thailand, Canada, Ireland, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, and the UK. “We are the second runner up, the lads and lassies did solid.”
From humble beginnings to international contenders
The club’s journey began in July 2024 when Thai-born Suraphot, having relocated to Paraguay, sought out fellow enthusiasts to revive his passion for Gaelic football. What started as casual kickabouts swiftly evolved into Las Arpas de Paraguay GAA.
“Fast forward 15 months to November 2025,” Suraphot reflected. “Paraguay GAA participating in its first ever international Gaelic football tournament in Buenos Aires. I did not expect we would field one men and one women team within a span of 15 months of a first hop, and solo in Paraguay.”
Hard work, pride, and a touch of magic
Suraphot highlighted the happiness in the squad, noting the intensive prepaarations over the last few months.
“The amount of work and dedication from all the players and committees should not go unnoticed, working day and night to make this happen. It still feels like a miracle seeing people dedicating their time and effort in representing the team that I created. Competing internationally is an experience of a lifetime. Magical. I am glad to be a part of this wee GAA team in South America. Vamos Las Arpas de Paraguay GAA.”
