Alianza Lima failed to uphold its home-field status at its Matute stadium, losing 0-2 to Brazilian soccer team Sao Paulo in the fourth match of Group D in the Copa Libertadores.
This result complicates its chances of advancing to the next round of the tournament, but its fans' faith in the Peruvian soccer team remains strong.
With this defeat, the "blue and white" team remains in third place in its group with four points, thanks to the draw in Brazil against Sao Paulo, the victory over Talleres in Matute with a double from Paolo Guerrero, and a last-minute goal from Hernán Barcos.
However, their qualification now depends not only on their performance, but also on what happens in the other group matches.
The next match between Talleres de Córdoba scheduled for this Thursday, May 8 at 5:00 PM (Peruvian time), will be key to determining their standings.
What does Alianza need?
Alianza Lima must earn at least 4 to 6 points in the two upcoming matches against Talleres (in Córdoba) and Libertad (in Asunción), and so could get a total of 8 to 10 points in its group.
The ideal scenario includes a win and at least one additional draw to aspire to second place.
However, not everything is in their hands. If Libertad earns more than three points in its next two matches, direct qualification would be further away, even if Alianza wins its matches.
Added to this is an important factor: goal difference. The recent loss to Sao Paulo left the Grones at a disadvantage, so they need a good win to improve their average.
Is there a chance of getting a place in the Sudamericana tournament?
Yes. If Alianza Lima fails to qualify for the round of 16 of the Libertadores, they can still advance to the round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana, this place is for the teams that finish third in their groups in Libertadores tournament.
To secure that place, Alianza Lima must finish above Talleres in the standings, which will be possible if they can get the 6 points on the road in Argentina or Paraguay.
More in Andina:
(END) MEG / MDV
Published: 5/7/2025