CS Cartaginés 3–1 International San Carlos – Costa Rica Primera División

CS Cartaginés delivered a dominant performance at Estadio José Rafael Fello Meza on July 26, 2026, defeating International San Carlos 3–1 in a Costa Rica Primera División clash. The home side’s clinical finishing and midfield control proved too much for the visitors, who battled valiantly but ultimately fell short.

Match Overview

Cartaginés started aggressively and took the lead inside the opening ten minutes through a well-placed strike from the edge of the box. They doubled their advantage before the half-hour mark with a header from a corner. International San Carlos pulled one back just before halftime with a composed finish from a counter-attack, giving the visitors hope. However, Cartaginés restored their two-goal cushion early in the second half and then managed the game expertly to secure the victory.

Key Moments

• 6' – CS Cartaginés goal: A low drive from 20 yards finds the bottom corner.
• 27' – Cartaginés doubles the lead: A towering header from a set piece makes it 2–0.
• 43' – International San Carlos goal: A quick break and a clinical finish gives the visitors a lifeline.
• 52' – Cartaginés seals the win: A third goal, this time a neat finish from inside the box after a defensive error.

Tactical Story

Cartaginés dominated possession and used width effectively, with full-backs pushing high to create overloads. Their pressing forced mistakes from San Carlos in dangerous areas. The visitors relied on speed on the counter and found success once, but Cartaginés adjusted after halftime by dropping deeper and cutting off passing lanes. The home side’s set-piece threat was a major factor, as two of the three goals came from dead-ball situations.

Standout Players

CS Cartaginés: The midfield duo controlled the tempo, while the striker who scored the opener was a constant menace. The center-back who headed home the second goal also marshaled the defense effectively. International San Carlos: The goal scorer showed quality in transition, but the visitors lacked a consistent threat from open play.

Impact on the Standings

Cartaginés’ win solidifies their position in the top half of the Costa Rica Primera División table, keeping them within striking distance of the league leaders. International San Carlos remain in the lower half, but their spirited performance suggests they can compete against stronger sides. The result also extends Cartaginés’ unbeaten run at home to six matches.