Alianza FC earned their first three points in Group B of the 2026 Central American Cup with a 2-1 victory over Guatemala's Antigua GFC on Wednesday night at Cuscatlan Stadium in San Salvador.
Both teams created early chances.
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Antigua's Kevin Lopez sent a long-range shot over the crossbar in the seventh minute, while Alianza's Matias Mier delivered a cross that Noel Rivera failed to connect with.
In the 27th minute, Antigua's Juan David Moreno shot wide. Alianza responded a minute later through David Leon, whose strike forced a save from goalkeeper Luis Moran.
Harold Osorio broke the deadlock in the 30th minute, capitalizing on a rebound inside the penalty box to put the hosts ahead before halftime.
Narciso Orellana attempted to double the lead with a distance shot that went over the bar, and Leon missed narrowly in the 50th minute.
Antigua equalized in the 77th minute when Oscar Castellanos capitalized on a defensive error to beat Alianza goalkeeper Danilo Joya.
However, William Parra scored late to secure the win for the Salvadoran side.
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Antigua Coach on Preparation
Before the match, Antigua manager Mauricio Tapia discussed his squad's preparation and roster changes.
"We come with a path marked by the restructuring we have had, but in general terms the players have done a good preseason despite the short working time, but we arrived to compete," Tapia said.
Tapia emphasized the club's high expectations.
"The claims we have are high, they are important, we have competed well throughout these editions, several players were changed, but we continue with the same line and model of the club."
He also noted changes in their opponent.
"Alianza changed more than us because it changed coach and is in search of its best version, but we are with all the illusion of representing our club and our country well."
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Alianza will host Costa Rica's Club Sport Herediano at Cuscatlan Stadium on Wednesday, August 5, in their next group stage match.
