Ayacucho FC Dominates Santos Ica in Peruvian Liga 2 Clash

Ayacucho Futbol Club kicked off their 2026 Peruvian Liga 2 campaign in emphatic style, securing a convincing 2-0 victory over Santos Ica at the Estadio Ciudad de Cumaná on July 27. The home side controlled proceedings from the first whistle, showcasing a blend of defensive solidity and clinical finishing that left the visitors chasing shadows.

Match Overview

The encounter, played under clear skies, saw Ayacucho dominate possession and create the clearer chances. From the opening minutes, the midfield trio of José Salazar, Luis Castillo, and Carlos Gómez dictated the tempo, cutting off Santos Ica's supply lines. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when striker Kevin Sandoval latched onto a through ball from Salazar, rounded the goalkeeper, and slotted home.

Santos Ica attempted to respond, but their best chance came in the 41st minute when a free kick from Jorge Rodriguez forced a sharp save from Ayacucho's goalkeeper Miguel Ángel Vargas.

Second Half: Clinical Finish

Ayacucho doubled their lead just after the restart. In the 52nd minute, a swift counterattack saw Diego Flores deliver a precise cross from the right wing, which was met by an unmarked Kevin Sandoval for his second goal of the match. Sandoval's brace was the highlight of the day, underlining his importance to Ayacucho's promotion aspirations.

Santos Ica pushed forward in the final 20 minutes but lacked the cutting edge to breach Ayacucho's organized backline, marshaled by captain Mario Vargas. The home side comfortably saw out the match to claim three vital points.

Standout Players

• Kevin Sandoval (Ayacucho FC) – Two clinical finishes, constant threat.
• José Salazar (Ayacucho FC) – Dictated midfield, provided assist for first goal.
• Miguel Ángel Vargas (Ayacucho FC) – Clean sheet, key save in first half.

Table Impact

This victory places Ayacucho FC in the upper half of the Peruvian Liga 2 standings early in the season. For Santos Ica, it's a setback as they look to avoid a relegation battle. Ayacucho's next test is against Deportivo Coopsol, while Santos Ica will aim to bounce back against Los Chankas.