Curicó Unido Edges CSD Antofagasta 1-0 in Tight Liga de Ascenso Clash

Curicó Unido secured a vital 1-0 victory over CSD Antofagasta at home on June 2, 2026, in a fiercely contested CHI Liga de Ascenso fixture. The result moves the hosts closer to the promotion playoff spots, while Antofagasta saw their unbeaten run come to an end in a match defined by defensive discipline and a single moment of brilliance.

Match Overview

Playing at the Estadio La Granja in Curicó, the home side dominated possession early but found Antofagasta’s backline well organized. The decisive moment arrived in the 57th minute when a flowing move down the right flank ended with a precise finish from midfielder Diego Rojas. Antofagasta pushed for an equalizer in the final quarter-hour, but Curicó’s goalkeeper Luis Correa produced two excellent saves to preserve the clean sheet.

Tactical Story

Curicó Unido’s manager set up in a compact 4-4-2, looking to press high and force turnovers. Antofagasta, known for their counter-attacking prowess, struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined defensive block. The visitors’ best opportunity came from a set piece just before halftime, but Correa was equal to the header. In the second half, Curicó adjusted their tempo, slowing the game down and drawing fouls to break any rhythm Antofagasta tried to build.

Standout Performers

• Diego Rojas (Curicó Unido) – Scored the match-winner and was a constant threat on the left wing.
• Luis Correa (Curicó Unido) – Made crucial saves to secure the clean sheet.
• Mario Paredes (CSD Antofagasta) – Worked tirelessly in midfield but lacked final delivery.

Impact on the Standings

With this win, Curicó Unido climbs to sixth place in the Liga de Ascenso table, just two points behind the playoff zone. Antofagasta, meanwhile, drops to ninth but remains only three points clear of the relegation scrap. The result could prove pivotal as the season progresses, with both sides aiming for top-flight football next year.

The narrow margin highlighted the defensive solidity of Curicó Unido, who have now kept three clean sheets in their last five matches. For Antofagasta, the task now is to bounce back in their next fixture against Universidad de Concepción.