Universitario de Deportes faced a tough challenge on April 8, 2025, in the Copa Libertadores, falling to Independiente del Valle 1-0 at the Estadio Banco de Guayaquil. This match marked the second round of Group B in the prestigious tournament, and it was a critical encounter for both teams, each seeking their first points after disappointing opening matches.
The game started with both teams eager to establish dominance. Universitario, under the guidance of coach Fabián Bustos, aimed to bounce back from their previous loss to River Plate. They pressed forward early, trying to take an advantage, but it was Independiente del Valle that gradually gained control of the match. By the end of the first half, they held a staggering 65% possession compared to Universitario's 35%.
Despite Universitario's efforts, the first half ended without any goals, although both teams had their chances. Notably, Universitario's Álex Valera came close to scoring, hitting the crossbar with a powerful shot just before halftime. The Peruvian side's frustration was palpable as they failed to convert their opportunities.
As the second half unfolded, the intensity of the match continued. Universitario looked more threatening at times, but their finishing let them down. In the 54th minute, Andy Polo found himself in a prime position but shot wide, leaving fans and teammates disappointed.
Independiente del Valle, however, remained patient and capitalized on their moment. In the 82nd minute, Jordy Alcívar struck a spectacular shot from outside the area, curling it into the top corner of the net, leaving Universitario's goalkeeper Sebastián Britos with no chance. This stunning goal proved to be the match-winner.
Following the goal, Universitario intensified their efforts to equalize, pushing more players forward. They made several substitutions, including bringing in José Rivera for Edison Flores and later, Gabriel Costa and Gustavo Dulanto for injured players. Despite their determination, they could not find the back of the net.
The referee added six minutes of stoppage time, but even with this extra opportunity, Universitario could not break through Independiente del Valle's defense. The match concluded with a 1-0 victory for the Ecuadorian side, marking a crucial win as they sought to recover from their own opening loss to Barcelona SC.
With this result, Independiente del Valle now sits with three points in Group B, while Universitario remains at the bottom with zero points after two matches. Their next challenge will be against Barcelona SC, where they will need to secure a win to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
Universitario's coach, Fabián Bustos, expressed disappointment after the match, acknowledging the missed opportunities. "We had chances to score, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal," he stated. The team must now regroup and focus on their upcoming domestic league match against Melgar on April 13, 2025, where they will look to regain momentum.
As for Independiente del Valle, their coach is optimistic following this victory. He praised his team's resilience and highlighted the importance of the win in boosting their confidence for the upcoming matches against River Plate and Barcelona SC.
As the Copa Libertadores continues, both teams will look to build on their performances. Universitario needs to find their scoring touch quickly, while Independiente del Valle hopes to maintain their winning form as they aim for a place in the knockout stages of the tournament.
