Welcome to our series Passion and Pride, where The Asuncion Times dives into the heart of Paraguayan football, spotlighting the twelve teams of the Primera División. In each episode, we introduce one club, uncovering its history, rivalries, and defining moments that have shaped Paraguay’s top league. In part nine of Passion and Pride, we go to Barrio Obrero in Asunción, to discover one of the most traditional clubs in Paraguay: Club Nacional.
The origins of Club Nacional
Club Nacional was founded on 5 June 1904, as Nacional Football Club, by high school students and teachers from the National School of the Capital (Colegio Nacional de la Capital) in Asunción. Both the name and the colours were inspired by the school itself. At the time of its creation, the founders could not decide on a name, but they felt proud of their institution and chose to represent it on the football field.
Alongside clubs such as Olimpia and Guaraní, Nacional became one of the founding members of the Primera División. In an era when Paraguayan football was still finding its identity, Nacional quickly emerged as a pioneer, not only as one of the country’s first clubs but also as a genuine footballing force capable of challenging giants like Cerro Porteño and Olimpia.
A neighbourhood rival
During the early decades of Paraguayan football, Nacional won several league titles. In that context, a fierce rivalry with Cerro Porteño began to grow. Founded eight years after Nacional, Cerro became the natural neighbour and rival. Their encounters are known as The Derby of Barrio Obrero, one of the oldest and most traditional derbies in Paraguay.
An interesting detail is that the distance between their stadiums is only 800 metres. During TV transmission, it is even possible to glimpse La Nueva Olla, Cerro’s ground, from the stands of Nacional’s stadium.
Arsenio Erico Stadium
Nacional’s home is the Arsenio Erico Stadium, located in the heart of Barrio Obrero. It is named after Paraguay’s first international football star, who began his career in the club’s youth divisions.
In 1932, while on a tour in Argentina to raise funds for soldiers during the Chaco War, Erico was signed by Argentinian giant Independiente. There, he became a legend: winning multiple championships and becoming the all-time top scorer in Argentine football, a record that still stands. Later, he returned to Nacional before retiring, as a gesture of gratitude towards the club that had shaped his early years.
“La Academia”
Nacional’s nickname, La Academia, The Academy, also dates back to its origins. Since the club was founded by students and teachers, the local press began referring to it that way, admiring its organised and elegant playing style. At a time when most teams played a more physical brand of football, Nacional stood out for its intelligence and technique.
Over time, the nickname became part of the club’s identity. It symbolised discipline, education, and a deep respect for the game.
A glorious past
Nacional was a dominant force during the early years of the Paraguayan league. However, after their last championship in the 1940s, supporters had to wait until 2009 to celebrate another title. That long-awaited triumph marked a powerful rebirth, uniting generations of fans and proving that loyalty and perseverance eventually find their reward.
The club’s greatest international achievement came in 2014, when Nacional reached the Copa Libertadores final, losing to Argentine San Lorenzo. They became only the second Paraguayan team after Olimpia to achieve such a milestone, a moment that filled the nation with pride.
The enduring academy
More than a century after its foundation, Club Nacional remains a constant presence in both the capital and Paraguayan football. Its supporters are known for their unwavering loyalty, following the team with a sense of dignity and devotion everywhere they go. Its legacy continues to live in Barrio Obrero, in the shadow of the Arsenio Erico, where every match echoes a century of passion, discipline, and pride.
To follow the club, find Club Nacional on Instagram.
Read the previous Episode 8 of Passion and Pride, about General Caballero JLM, a club rooted in historic references, and an inspiration for the Alto Paraná sporting community.
