Fans are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling encounter as Alianza Lima takes on Nacional de Paraguay at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva on February 12, 2025. The match, which is the return leg of the preliminary round of the Copa Libertadores 2025, kicks off at 7:30 PM local time (or 9:30 PM for those watching from Argentina and Chile). This closely contested series is level at 1-1 after the first leg, making this match all the more pivotal for both teams as they strive for progression.
Alianza Lima, buoyed by their home advantage and the passionate support of their fans, is determined to capitalize on this opportunity to advance to the next stage of the tournament. Last week, they managed to secure a commendable 1-1 draw against Nacional during their visit to Paraguay. Key player Hernán Barcos, who scored the equalizer late on, has been recognized for his impactful performance and is expected to lead the attack once again. His management, led by Néstor Gorosito, has anticipated this match with considerable strategic planning.
“We have improved as the tournament has progressed, and our pre-season preparations have certainly benefitted us. It’s unfortunate to miss Paolo Guerrero, who is out with injury, but we have the depth to adapt,” Gorosito conveyed during the pre-match press conference, acknowledging the absence of the experienced striker. Guerrero, plagued with a second-degree sprain, will not be on the field, thereby shifting focus to Barcos, Succar, and Cantero for offensive responsibilities. With Guerrero’s absence felt, the local squad must rally together to maintain their competitive edge.
The contest is set to draw considerable attention across South America. Various networks will provide coverage, with ESPN being the primary broadcaster. Fans will be able to tune in from different regions: ESPN, Disney+, and Pluto TV will carry the game for audiences across South America, ensuring widespread viewership. For those situated in Argentina, FOX Sports will be handling the live broadcast, and for viewers tuning from the United States, fuboTV and beIN Sports also offer options to catch the action.
With the emotional stakes running high, both teams have reasons to be motivated. Nacional, led by coach Juan Pablo Pumpido, enters this match on the back of poor domestic form, recording three losses and one draw this season. Although their initial encounter saw them earn a draw, they have struggled significantly since then. Players like Gustavo Caballero, who scored during the first leg, are needed to step up and convert chances to push for success.
The schedule for viewing this highly anticipated showdown is as follows: it will be live at 7:30 PM for viewers in Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador, 8:30 PM for those in Chile, Bolivia, and Paraguay, and 9:30 PM for fans in Argentina and Brazil. Broadcast channels include ESPN family of networks and various streaming platforms providing additional viewing options.
“If we find ourselves tied again, it will go to penalties as there will be no extra time,” stated Gorosito, discussing the match's potential conclusion. This format adds even greater significance to scoring as both teams aim not only for victory but to secure their positions without extending the game’s duration.
With such high anticipation building around the encounter at Estadio Alejandro Villanueva, Alianza Lima will not only be playing for their spot but also for the pride and excitement of their home supporters. The outcome of this match could see one team moving closer to meeting Boca Juniors for the next phase of the Copa Libertadores, highlighting the stakes of this face-off.
Fans are eager, excitement is palpable, and the stage is set for what could be one of the defining moments of the Copa Libertadores 2025 season. With the roar of the crowd backing them, Alianza Lima aims to seize the moment, put aside Nacional’s struggles, and emerge victorious to advance to the next round.