22 de Julio Dominate San Antonio to Climb Ecuadorian Serie B Standings

22 de Julio produced a commanding performance at the Estadio Olímpico de Riobamba, defeating San Antonio (ECU) 2-0 in Matchday 10 of the Ecuadorian Campeonato Serie B on May 31, 2026. The home side’s efficiency in front of goal and a rock-solid defensive display earned them a deserved three points, pushing them into the promotion playoff places.

Match Report

From the outset, 22 de Julio imposed their will. Their high pressing forced San Antonio into repeated turnovers in dangerous areas. The breakthrough arrived in the 23rd minute when winger Jhonny Preciado cut inside from the left and curled a delightful shot into the top corner. San Antonio struggled to create clear chances, managing only long-range efforts that failed to trouble goalkeeper Alexis Hinostroza.

The hosts doubled their lead just after the hour mark. A well-worked free-kick routine saw defender Luis Cumbicus rise unchallenged to head home from six yards. Despite pushing numbers forward in the final 20 minutes, San Antonio could not find a way back. The visitors' frustration boiled over in the 78th minute when midfielder Carlos Congo received a second yellow card for a reckless tackle.

Key Stats

• Possession: 22 de Julio 53% – 47% San Antonio
• Shots on target: 22 de Julio 7 – San Antonio 2
• Corners: 22 de Julio 9 – San Antonio 3
• Yellow cards: San Antonio 4 (one red)

Tactical Analysis

22 de Julio’s manager, José María Martínez, set up a 4-2-3-1 that allowed full-backs to overlap and stretch the San Antonio defense. The midfield duo of Jhonatan Macías and Edison Méndez won the battle in the center, breaking up play and distributing quickly. San Antonio, in contrast, lacked creativity without their suspended playmaker, often resorting to long balls that were easily dealt with.

Standout Performers

Jhonny Preciado was the Man of the Match, scoring one and creating numerous chances with his dribbling. Goalkeeper Alexis Hinostroza earned a clean sheet with two routine saves but commanded his area well. For San Antonio, defender Anderson Naula worked tirelessly but received little support from his midfield.

Season Implications

With this win, 22 de Julio moved to 17 points, good for 3rd place in the Serie B standings, just one point behind leaders Universidad Católica (Quito) and with a game in hand. San Antonio remain in 7th place with 11 points, now six points adrift of the promotion zone. The battle for top-flight football is intensifying, and 22 de Julio are showing they have the quality to stay in the hunt.