The LDU leadership visible in El Teniente continues to push forward with determination, even as it faces mounting pressure from Botafogo. The South American Cup race remains tightly contested, and Group A is entering a decisive phase where every point counts and the margin for error is minimal.
In the climactic stretch of the Copa Sudamericana group stage, Magallanes has shown resilience, clawing back from behind to keep their hopes alive. They are far from safe, needing consistency and results beyond the modest three points earned in four matches. League and Quito, pressing from Rancagua, secured a 1-1 draw that keeps them at the head of the table in the first zone, yet the road ahead is long and fraught with risk. In the previous match between these sides, Magallanes delivered a stern warning with a 4-0 triumph, a reminder of their capacity to tilt momentum with a decisive performance. With a sole direct berth for the final phase on offer, the Ecuadorian giant still aspires to outlast Botafogo, but the margin for error is evaporating. Victory over the Brazilian side would seal the top spot in the zone and secure the lone automatic ticket to the knockout round, a goal that remains firmly in sight but increasingly demanding to achieve.
95′ RESOLUTE DRAW IN RANCAGUA, and the league remains distanced from the pack as the clock winds down. The tension is palpable as both teams refuse to yield, underscoring the fierce competition in the group and the high stakes of every second on the field.
45+3′ A NERVOUSLY DETERMINE D GOAL! The third effort was the one that counted for Felipe Flores, who capitalized on a brilliant assist from Carlos Villanueva and found the back of the net. The strike secures a late breakthrough and keeps the scoreboard level as halftime approaches, intensifying the drama of the clash.
FELIPE FLORES PUTS LIGA DE QUITO AHEAD WITH A 1-0 SCORELINE
In the dying moments of the first half, Magallanes hurled themselves forward and earned a late opportunity, weaving a collective sequence that nearly changed the course of the match. The teams went into the break with the score tied on the board, a reflection of the balanced tension that has characterized the encounter from start to finish.
▶️ Don’t miss the CONMEBOL South American competition on Star Plus LA. ESPN Ecuador provided live updates and highlights, illustrating the drama that unfolds in this region during May, as fans and analysts alike follow every twist and turn of the action.
— ESPN Ecuador
45+2′ Another pivotal moment arrives as Facundo Rodríguez scores for the league, crafted through a sharp finish in the penalty area. This instant response showcases Liga de Quito’s efficiency in front of goal and places Magallanes under pressure as the clock ticks toward halftime.
QUITO LEAGUE GOAL
Rodríguez calmly guides the ball into the net, signaling a crucial moment in the match as Liga de Quito edges ahead to claim a 1-0 advantage just before the break. The late bid by Magallanes remains a constant threat as the teams head to the locker rooms with a fragile, one-goal separation guiding the narrative.
▶️ Don’t miss the CONMEBOL South American action on Star Plus LA. ESPN Ecuador’s coverage underlines how these regional clashes carry significant weight for qualification and regional pride alike.
— ESPN Ecuador
39′ Domínguez makes a spectacular save, denying Felipe Flores from the spot as the goalkeeper stays alert and the momentum stays with the visitors. The goalkeeper’s reaction is a key moment in a tense first half that emphasizes the precision and nerve required in penalty situations in El Teniente.
DIDA SHORTCUT! In the 38th minute, Alexander Domínguez parried Felipe Flores’ shot from the penalty spot, stalling Magallanes’ early scoring chances. The game remains open as both teams search for an early advantage.
▶️ Don’t miss the CONMEBOL South American in Star Plus LA. ESPN Ecuador captured the tense atmosphere with vivid highlights during the broadcast.
8 & 39; The goal by Felipe Flores was erased in the early build-up, a moment that added to the frantic rhythm of the opening stages. The atmosphere in Rancagua, the stage for this cup confrontation, reflected the pride and passion that defines the tournament.
These are the Magallanes lineup led by Rodríguez: Luis Zubeldía’s Eleventh. The tactical setup and player selections illustrate a careful blend of grit and technique designed to edge ahead in this demanding group stage. The scene in Rancagua captures the significance of the fixture for both clubs as they chase advancement and regional prestige in South American football.
Source: Goal