Cienciano faced Caracas FC on Thursday, May 8, 2025, in a crucial match for both teams in the Copa Sudamericana 2025. The game took place at the Estadio Inca Garcilaso de la Vega in Cusco, Peru, and kicked off at 9:00 p.m. local time. With both teams fighting for a better position in Group H, this match was deemed vital for Cienciano, who needed a win to improve their standing in the tournament.
Coming into the match, Cienciano was in third place with only 3 points, trailing behind the leaders Atlético Mineiro by two points. A victory against Caracas FC would not only elevate Cienciano to second place but could potentially see them top the group if Atlético Mineiro lost their match. On the other hand, a loss could see them drop to the bottom of the group, depending on the outcome of Deportes Iquique's game.
As the match began, the atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to see Cienciano capitalize on their home advantage. The confirmed lineup for Cienciano included Ignacio Barrios in goal, supported by a backline of Josué Estrada, Maximiliano Amondarain, Jimmy Valoyes, and Joao Ortiz. The midfield featured Claudio Torrejón, Santiago Arias, and Juan Romagnoli, while Christian Cueva and Gaspar Gentile flanked striker Carlos Garcés.
Caracas FC’s lineup was equally competitive, featuring Frankarlos Benítez in goal, with Edgardo Rito, Francisco La Mantía, Luis Del Pino Mago, and Jesús Yendis in defense. The midfield was manned by Miguel Vegas, Vicente Rodríguez, and Leslie Heraldez, while José Manuel Hernández Chávez led the attack alongside Ender Echenique and Jeriel De Santis.
The match kicked off with both teams eager to establish dominance. Cienciano struck first in the 15th minute when Gaspar Gentile found the back of the net after a brilliant setup from Christian Cueva and a deflection off the post. The home crowd erupted in celebration, giving Cienciano a 1-0 lead.
However, the excitement was short-lived as Caracas responded quickly. In the 33rd minute, José Manuel Hernández Chávez equalized with a stunning free-kick that left Cienciano’s goalkeeper, Ignacio Barrios, with no chance to save. The score was now tied at 1-1, and both teams pressed for a second goal.
As the first half progressed, tensions rose. Cienciano's Josué Estrada received a yellow card in the 44th minute, adding to the pressure on the home side. The first half ended with the score tied at 1-1, leaving both teams with everything to play for in the second half.
During halftime, the coaches made tactical adjustments, knowing that the outcome of this match could heavily influence their campaigns in the Copa Sudamericana. Cienciano needed to find a way to break the deadlock and secure the much-needed points.
The second half saw more aggressive play from both sides, with Cienciano pushing forward in search of a winning goal. They created several opportunities, but Caracas's defense, led by La Mantía and Yendis, held firm. Cueva continued to be a key player for Cienciano, orchestrating attacks and looking to create openings for his teammates.
Despite their efforts, Cienciano struggled to convert their chances into goals. As the match wore on, the frustration grew among the players and fans alike. The stakes were high, and every moment counted. Caracas, too, had their chances to take the lead but failed to capitalize on their opportunities.
As the clock ticked down, Cienciano continued to press, but the Caracas defense remained resolute. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving both teams with a point, but Cienciano's hopes of climbing the table were dashed. They remained in third place with 4 points, while Caracas also stayed in contention with their point.
After the match, Cienciano's coach expressed disappointment over not securing the win, stating, "We had our chances, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal if we want to advance in this tournament." The players echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the need to improve their finishing as they head into the next matches.
Looking ahead, Cienciano must regroup and prepare for their upcoming fixtures in the Copa Sudamericana. The team will need to find a way to convert their performances into victories if they hope to progress beyond the group stage. The draw against Caracas FC serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of the tournament and the fine margins that can determine success or failure.
With the next matchdays approaching, Cienciano's fans remain hopeful that their team can turn their fortunes around and make a strong push for the knockout stages of the Copa Sudamericana 2025.
