Macará and Universidad Católica played out a tense 1-1 draw at the Estadio Bellavista in Ambato, a result that keeps both sides firmly in the mid-table conversation of the LigaPro Serie A as the 2026 season reaches its decisive stretch. The match, played on the morning of 18 August, offered a lively contest built on solid defence and moments of genuine attacking quality.

The home side, known for their passionate support in Ambato, took control of the early exchanges. Their pressure paid off just after the half-hour mark when Colombian striker Jhonnier Viveros rose highest to meet a well-delivered corner and powered a header past the visiting goalkeeper. The goal sent the home crowd into a frenzy and gave Macará a lead that their first-half performance merited.

Católica’s second-half response

CD Universidad Católica, traditionally one of the most tactically organised teams in Ecuadorian football, made key adjustments during the interval. They emerged with greater possession and began to stretch Macará’s defensive shape. The equaliser arrived in the 68th minute through the ever-reliable Ismael Díaz, who latched onto a clever through-ball before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner.

Both sides pushed for a winner in the final twenty minutes, with Macará substitute Michael Endara coming closest when his free-kick from the edge of the box clipped the outside of the post. At the other end, the Católica goalkeeper was forced into a sharp save from a low drive by Fernando Mora.

What the result means

The draw means Macará remain unbeaten in their last three matches, steadying their campaign after a mixed start to the second stage of the season. For Universidad Católica, the point on the road continues a solid run of form that has kept them in touch with the Serie A playoff places.

With fixtures piling up, both managers will take the positives from a competitive morning in Ambato. Macará will next look to convert these displays into more wins if they are to climb into the top half of the table, while Católica will aim to turn their dominance in possession into more clinical finishing in the weeks ahead.