Barcelona SC has done it again! The team known as "Los Toreros" showcased their resolve and determination as they drew 1-1 against El Nacional during the second leg of the Copa Libertadores second qualification round, securing their progression to the next round with an aggregate score of 2-1.
Having entered the match at the Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha on February 26, 2025, with the advantage of their 1-0 victory from the first leg, Barcelona SC displayed their resilience through goalkeeping errors and fortunate penalties. After experiencing early difficulties, the host team managed to overcome the odds.
Early on, the game thrust Barcelona SC against the wall when Mario Pineida was sent off just 10 minutes after kickoff, leaving Barcelona with only ten players on the field. This setback seemed to expose their vulnerabilities; the team struggled to maintain possession, and El Nacional seized the opportunity.
Just before halftime, El Nacional’s Ángel Ledesma converted the pivotal penalty awarded when Charles Vélez was fouled inside the box. Ledesma made no mistake from the spot, and the goal put the game at 1-1 at the 45+7 minute mark. This drew the contest level on aggregate, with El Nacional eager to upset the odds.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Barcelona SC remained steadfast. Just when all seemed dire, Octavio Rivero redeemed himself after missing a penalty earlier due to Leonai Souza's intervention with eight minutes left on the clock, scoring the equalizer. His goal surged the team’s spirit, placing them back on the aggregate score at 2-1.
Reflecting on the match, Rivero expressed his relief stating, "We suffered, but we pulled through. It's all about character at moments like these. We knew our backs were against the wall, but we managed to secure our progress to the next phase."
Barcelona SC demonstrated their strength with strong performances from key players, including defensive stalwart José David Contreras and midfield dynamo Dixon Arroyo. Despite the red card, they kept their composure and developed plays to counter El Nacional's attacks.
For El Nacional, the match was another disappointment, as they milked their season of hope but managed to secure only draws and losses, including the first leg defeat. Coach Omar Assad stated pre-game, "We are here to fight and push through to the next stage. Regardless of previous performances, we are soldiers and will give our all on the pitch today."
Referee Esteban Ostojich officiated the match, controlling the tempo and flow, but not without controversy. The tension on the pitch did not ease as warnings piled against players from both sides, but it was Barcelona who showed up with hunger and tenacity.
Barcelona SC's successful progression earns them not just pride but also financial benefits. The win brings them closer to potential earnings of $600,000, adding to their motivation as they look forward to the next round where they will face either Universidad Central or Corinthians, who are also vying for their spot.
This win for Barcelona SC builds on their solid start to the season, which includes victories across competitions and solid teamwork, whereas El Nacional will need to regroup and address their winless streak moving forward. With this, Barcelona SC not only emerges as the victor but also displays their intent to make substantial progress within the Copa Libertadores.
The excitement doesn't end here; as they look forward to facing new challenges, Barcelona SC fans are hopeful and confident knowing their players can endure challenges successfully.