In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio Unión Tarma, Universitario de Deportes staged a second-half comeback to edge past AD Tarma 2-1 in Peruvian Liga 1 action on July 19, 2026. The result keeps Universitario firmly in the title race while denting Tarma's hopes of climbing into the top half of the table.

Match Overview

Universitario arrived as the league's form side, sitting near the top of the standings, while AD Tarma had been inconsistent but dangerous at home. The first period belonged to the hosts, who pressed high and forced early errors from the visitors' backline.

First Half: Tarma Strike First

AD Tarma took a deserved lead in the 28th minute when a swift counter-attack caught Universitario off guard. Left winger Jhonatan Torres cut inside from the flank and curled a precise shot into the far corner, giving goalkeeper José Carvallo no chance. Tarma continued to threaten, but Universitario weathered the storm and grew into the game as halftime approached.

Second Half: Universitario's Response

The "U" came out with renewed energy after the break. Manager Jorge Fossati switched to a more aggressive 4-3-3, pushing full-backs forward and pinning Tarma deep. The equalizer arrived in the 63rd minute when Andy Polo latched onto a through ball from Jairo Concha and slotted home with composure. Suddenly, the momentum swung completely.

Winning Goal and Tactical Shift

Universitario completed the turnaround twelve minutes from time. A corner kick was only partially cleared, and Williams Riveros volleyed the ball home from the edge of the box after a clever set-piece routine. Tarma tried to push for a late leveller, but Universitario's defense held firm, with Federico Alonso making several crucial interceptions.

Standout Performers

• Andy Polo (Universitario): A constant menace on the right flank, scoring the equalizer and forcing Tarma's left-back into defensive mode.
• Jairo Concha (Universitario): Dictated the tempo from midfield, completing over 40 passes and providing the assist.
• Jhonatan Torres (AD Tarma): Scored a brilliant opener and was a threat on the break, though his influence waned after the break.

Impact on the Liga 1 Standings

The victory moves Universitario to within three points of the league leader, maintaining strong pressure in the Clausura race. For AD Tarma, the defeat leaves them in mid-table, six points adrift of the top four. Their home form had been a strength, but failing to hold a lead against a title contender highlights the gap they must bridge.