Barcelona SC kicked off their Copa Libertadores campaign with an impressive 1-0 victory over Independiente del Valle on April 1, 2025, at the Banco Pichincha stadium in Guayaquil. The match, marked by heavy rain that affected play, saw Bryan Carabalí score the only goal just five minutes into the game, capitalizing on a superb assist from Octavio Rivero.
From the outset, Barcelona SC displayed their attacking intent. Just two minutes in, Octavio Rivero took a shot that was saved by Independiente del Valle's goalkeeper, Guido Villar. However, the rebound fell to Janner Corozo, who failed to convert, sending the ball wide. But it was Bryan Carabalí who opened the scoring in the 4th minute, finishing expertly after receiving a precise pass from Rivero.
Barcelona SC maintained the pressure, dominating possession and creating several opportunities, but they could not extend their lead. Villar emerged as a crucial figure for Independiente del Valle, making several key saves to keep his team in the match. In the 12th minute, a goal from Joaquín Valiente was disallowed for offside, further frustrating the home side.
As the first half progressed, Independiente del Valle struggled to find their rhythm, with their first attempt on goal only coming late in the half. The visitors were largely contained by Barcelona SC’s defense, with Patrick Mercado providing the only real threat as he tried to break through from the left flank.
In the second half, the rain intensified, making the pitch conditions challenging for both teams. The match took a turn for Independiente del Valle when Jhegson Méndez was forced to leave the field due to injury in the 50th minute, replaced by Jordy Alcívar. This setback further complicated their efforts to mount a comeback.
Barcelona SC had a golden opportunity to double their lead in the 68th minute when they were awarded a penalty after Medina fouled Vallecilla. However, Janner Corozo's attempt was spectacularly saved by Villar, who continued to frustrate the home side's attacking efforts.
Despite Barcelona SC's dominance, the match remained tense as Independiente del Valle began to find their footing and pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Their best chance came in the 60th minute, but a long-range effort from Alcívar was comfortably saved by José Contreras, the Barcelona SC goalkeeper.
As the game approached its conclusion, Barcelona SC continued to press for a second goal, but Villar's heroics kept the scoreline intact. The match ended with Barcelona SC securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory, a significant win in the context of their Copa Libertadores aspirations.
Looking ahead, Barcelona SC will face River Plate in Argentina for their next match, while Independiente del Valle will host Universitario de Perú. The outcome of this match is crucial for both teams as they aim to establish their positions in Group B of the tournament, which also includes River Plate and Universitario, with the latter coached by former Barcelona SC manager Fabián Bustos.
This victory for Barcelona SC serves as a redemption of sorts, especially after their heavy defeat to Independiente del Valle in LigaPro earlier this season, where they lost 4-0. The match highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two teams, with Barcelona SC looking to build on this momentum as they navigate the challenges of the Copa Libertadores.
In summary, Barcelona SC's performance was a testament to their resilience and determination to make a mark in this prestigious tournament. With key players like Bryan Carabalí and Octavio Rivero stepping up, they have set a solid foundation for their campaign ahead.
