Alianza San Salvador 2–1 Antigua GFC
CONCACAF Central American Cup – Group Stage
30 July 2026 – Estadio Cuscatlán, San Salvador

Match Overview

Alianza San Salvador came from behind to secure a vital 2–1 victory over Guatemalan side Antigua GFC in front of a passionate home crowd at the Estadio Cuscatlán. The result gives the Salvadoran club a strong start in their bid to reach the knockout phase of the 2026 CONCACAF Central American Cup.

Key Moments

Antigua drew first blood in the 22nd minute when striker Jairo de León beat the offside trap and slotted home a precise cross from winger Cristian Jiménez. The goal came against the run of play, as Alianza had controlled possession early on but lacked the final pass.

The home side equalised just before half‑time through a thunderous strike from Kevin Reyes. The midfielder picked up a loose ball 25 yards out, took a touch, and unleashed a dipping effort that flew into the top corner, leaving Antigua goalkeeper Adrián Motta with no chance.

The winner came in the 67th minute. A corner kick from Diego Flores was met by the head of centre‑back Fabricio Aragón, who powered his effort past Motta to send the Alianza faithful into a frenzy.

Tactical Story

Alianza manager Juan Cortés set his team up in a 4‑2‑3‑1, focusing on wide overloads through full‑backs Ronald Martínez and Luis Pérez. The strategy paid dividends as both goals came from crosses into the box. Antigua, under coach Mario Acevedo, defended deep after taking the lead but struggled to deal with Alianza’s second‑half intensity, especially from set pieces.

The visitors attempted to regain control by introducing Andrés Lezcano and Fernando Rivalta in the second half, but their attacking play remained disjointed. Alianza’s midfield duo of Kevin Reyes and Marcos Henríquez won the battle in the centre, completing a combined 12 tackles and intercepting eight passes.

Standout Players

• Kevin Reyes (Alianza) – Scored a stunning equaliser and covered every blade of grass in midfield.
• Fabricio Aragón (Alianza) – Dominated aerial duels (7 won) and scored the winning header.
• Jairo de León (Antigua) – Took his goal well and was his team’s most dangerous attacking threat.

Group Stage Impact

Alianza join LD Alajuelense on three points at the top of the group. The Salvadorans will face those Costa Ricans in their next fixture, a match that could decide the early group leader. Antigua, sitting bottom with zero points after the opening round, will need to regroup quickly for a home clash against Xelaju MC.