International San Carlos 1–0 ADR Jicaral: Home Grit Secures Vital Three Points

San Carlos, Costa Rica – May 18, 2026 – International San Carlos edged out ADR Jicaral 1–0 in a tightly contested Costa Rica Segunda División clash at the Estadio Carlos Arredondo. A first-half strike proved decisive as the home side moved further away from the relegation zone, while Jicaral slumped to a frustrating defeat.

Match Overview

The encounter started at a frenetic pace, with both teams eager to assert control. International San Carlos, playing with high energy in front of their fans, created the better early openings. Jicaral, meanwhile, relied on quick transitions and solid defensive organisation to stay in the game.

The only goal arrived in the 27th minute. A well-worked corner routine saw midfielder Esteban Quesada deliver an in-swinging cross that was met by Daniel Barrantes at the near post. His glancing header looped over the Jicaral goalkeeper and nestled into the far corner.

Key Moments

• 19’ – Jicaral’s first warning: A long-range effort from Jordy Salazar whistled just over the crossbar.
• 27’ – Goal! 1–0. Barrantes’ header from Quesada’s corner puts San Carlos ahead.
• 41’ – San Carlos denied a second: Jeffry Paniagua saw his left-footed drive brilliantly saved by Jicaral keeper Luis Arce.
• 53’ – Jicaral penalty shout waved away: Heavy contact in the box went unpunished, much to the visitors’ frustration.
• 74’ – Red card for Jicaral: Defender Kevin Méndez received a second yellow for a reckless challenge, reducing the away side to ten men.

Tactical Approach

International San Carlos employed a 4-2-3-1 formation with the full‑backs pushing high to provide width. Jicaral, set up in a 4-4-2, struggled to cope with the home side’s midfield rotation, particularly after going a man down. San Carlos’ pressing game forced Jicaral into long balls that were easily mopped up by the central defensive pairing of Álvaro Soto and Fabián Rojas.

Season Context

With this victory, International San Carlos climb to 12th in the 16-team Liga de Ascenso standings, five points clear of the relegation places with eight matches remaining. ADR Jicaral, meanwhile, remain mired in 15th, now four points from safety. For San Carlos, the three points are a major morale booster after a run of three matches without a win.