On February 23, 2025, Barcelona SC hosted Mushuc Runa at the Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha for the second round of LigaPro Ecuabet. Both teams aimed to continue their successful starts to the season, having each secured victories during the opening matchweek.
The match kicked off with both sides displaying ambition, with Barcelona SC coming off a nail-biting 3-2 win against Manta FC. Mushuc Runa, on the other hand, was riding high after defeating Delfín SC 2-0. The stakes were high as the two teams fought for early dominance.
During the opening minutes, Mushuc Runa took control of the ball, but Barcelona's defensive line, led by Byron Castillo, aimed to assert themselves. Tensions rose as key players battled for possession, and it wasn't long before the first contentious moment occurred. Gabriel Cortez had what appeared to be a promising chance negated due to being offside, demonstrated by the swift intervention of VAR just six minutes after kick-off.
Fans were on edge, as both squads struggled to find rhythm. The first half saw Barcelona SC take the initiative and pressure the Mushuc Runa defense, with standout performances from Janner Corozo and Octavio Rivero. Corozo's headers and shots, though impactful, narrowly missed the target, eliciting sighs of frustration from the home crowd.
By the end of the first half, the scoreboard remained unchanged at 0-0. Mushuc Runa's organized defense was evident, as they successfully blocked Barcelona City’s attempts to penetrate their goal. The half-time whistle marked significant tension between players and the frustrated fans, who began to voice their displeasure with the home side's inability to find the back of the net.
“The 'Ponchito' is holding the fort,” said one onlooker, as Mushuc Runa managed to deflect every attacking effort from the home team. Coach Ever Hugo Almeida’s tactics proved effective as his team claimed control, causing Barcelona’s usually fluid style to falter.
The second half resumed with hope for Barcelona SC fans. Changes were made, as both teams utilized substitutes to refresh the side. Mushuc Runa’s substitutions aimed to amplify their attack, but Barcelona remained persistent, desperately seeking to break the deadlock.
Despite sustained pressure from the home team, key chances continued to slip away. The home crowd grew anxious as the minutes ticked by. “¡Casi gol de Barcelona!” echoed within the stands, but moments of excitement were often blighted by poor passing and communication among Barcelona players.
At the 31-minute mark of the first half, Pablo Janner Corozo made his presence felt again with another chance, but the ball clanged off the post, stirring hope yet disappointment once more as Mushuc Runa celebrated their defensive resilience.
Referee Yerson Zambrano was frequently called upon amid protests from both teams, with notable challenges left unevaluated by VAR leading to growing unrest among players and fans. Luis Arce from Mushuc Runa and Byron Castillo from Barcelona SC both faced scrutiny for their tackles, yet no cards were flashed.
With both teams remaining resolute to hold their ground, another golden chance came up for Barcelona SC as Gabriel Cortez was within inches of converting from close range but failed to execute under pressure. The match became increasingly chaotic, with both sides displaying moments of creativity constrained by fierce defensive play.
Fans began obviously restless, signaling their frustrations toward players who, perhaps uncharacteristically, struggled to deliver effective attacking football. The final whistle brought a sense of teamwork and relief to Mushuc Runa, earning them valuable points and establishing them firmly as contenders.
Post-match, players from both teams expressed their thoughts on the encounter. Several shared in the acknowledgment of the tactical excellence exhibited by their opponents. Mushuc Runa's president, Luis Chango, reiterated the pride and potential shown by his players. "We aim to bring the spotlight to our city as we chase success," Chango stated after the game.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere surrounding Barcelona SC was charged with concern as they looked to refocus and rebound from stifling results, acknowledging the need for adjustments moving forward. "While we are creating chances, it’s imperative we convert them," noted striker Octavio Rivero, aiming to reclaim their edge heading later on.
Though the match concluded to a scoreless stalemate, both teams made fundamental impressions early this LigaPro season. Barcelona SC is left to rejuvenate for their upcoming matches, where goals will be the priority. For Mushuc Runa, this result emphasizes their rise within the league and the importance of maintaining momentum as the season progresses.
Stakes promise to escalate as both clubs prepare for their next encounters. Barcelona SC now prepares for upcoming matches, including the next Copa Libertadores fixture. Meanwhile, Mushuc Runa will look to build on this solid performance when they take on their next opponent aiming for more than just survival this season.