Alianza Lima Edges Los Chankas With Late Penalty Win

Alianza Lima secured a hard-fought victory against Los Chankas, winning 1-0 on Friday, April 18, 2025, at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva. The match, part of the Torneo Apertura 2025, showcased a tense atmosphere as both teams battled for crucial points in the league.

The only goal of the match came in the 67th minute when Hernán Barcos converted a penalty kick, putting Alianza Lima ahead. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review, which revealed that Kevin Quevedo had been fouled by Los Chankas goalkeeper Franco Saravia during a one-on-one situation. Initially, referee Augusto Menéndez had not called a foul, but after consulting with VAR official Milagros Arruela Patiño, he changed his decision.

Barcos stepped up to take the penalty, placing a precise shot into the left corner of the net, leaving Saravia no chance to save it. The joy of the goal was short-lived for Barcos, however, as he received a second yellow card just two minutes later, resulting in his expulsion. This left Alianza Lima with ten players for the remainder of the match.

In the first half, both teams had opportunities to score but were thwarted by offside calls. Quevedo thought he had given Alianza Lima the lead in the 35th minute with a header, but the goal was disallowed after VAR confirmed he was offside. Similarly, Los Chankas’ José Manzaneda scored in the 38th minute, but his effort was also ruled out for offside.

Despite being reduced to ten men, Alianza Lima maintained control of the game and created several chances to extend their lead. The home side dominated possession and continued to press forward, with notable attempts from players like Paolo Guerrero and Fernando Gaibor, who both came close to scoring.

In the 88th minute, Alianza Lima made a substitution, bringing on Juan Delgado for Quevedo, who had been a key player throughout the match. The tactical changes made by coach Néstor Gorosito aimed to solidify the defense while still seeking to capitalize on counter-attacks.

Throughout the match, Alianza Lima's goalkeeper Ángelo Campos was crucial, making three important saves to keep his team in the lead. His performance was vital, especially in the closing stages when Los Chankas pushed for an equalizer.

The victory allowed Alianza Lima to climb to 19 points in the league standings, just one point behind leaders Universitario de Deportes and Deportivo Garcilaso, who both sit at 20 points. The race for the top of the table is heating up, and every point counts as the season progresses.

Looking ahead, Alianza Lima will face Comerciantes Unidos in their next match, while Los Chankas will travel to play against Melgar. Both teams will be eager to build on their performances and secure important points in the ongoing tournament.

This match also highlighted the intensity of the competition, with several yellow cards issued throughout the game. In addition to Barcos’ dismissal, Alianza Lima’s coach, Gorosito, received a yellow card for protesting a decision in the second half. The physical nature of the match underscored the stakes involved as both teams fought for supremacy.

As the season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling encounters like this one, with teams vying not only for points but also for pride and positioning in the league. The drama of the match, coupled with the implications for the standings, makes every fixture essential as the Torneo Apertura continues.

In conclusion, Alianza Lima's narrow victory over Los Chankas showcased their resilience and determination, despite the challenges faced after Barcos' expulsion. With the league race tightening, every match will be crucial as teams push towards the championship.