In Alajuela, where Central America’s club season is already shaping the next continental map, Liga Deportiva Alajuelense have secured a place in the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup. Their route was confirmed with a Central American Cup semi-final berth after eliminating Honduras’ Marathón.
Quick facts
- Alajuelense defeated Marathón 5-3 on aggregate.
- The Costa Rican side won the home leg 3-1.
- Jeison Lucumí, Ronaldo Cisneros and Ronald Matarrita scored in the decisive victory.
- The result puts Alajuelense into the Central American Cup semi-finals and the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup.
The home victory was settled before the interval. Lucumí struck with his right foot in the 27th minute, before Mexican forward Cisneros added the second four minutes later. Matarrita completed the scoring from the penalty spot.
Cisneros started the match and his goal gave the former Chivas forward another notable moment in Costa Rica. He said the squad were pleased to have reached both the semi-finals and the Champions Cup, while stressing that the campaign remains unfinished.
“We are happy with the qualification and the place in the semi-finals and Concacaf Champions Cup,” Cisneros said. “There is a sense that we have something to put right in that competition, but we have not won anything yet. There is still a lot to play for.”
He added that unity and humility would be essential in a demanding tournament, despite Alajuelense having lifted the Central American Cup three times. The club remain in contention for a fourth successive title.
Alajuelense join Honduras’ Olimpia and a strong Mexican contingent in the 2027 Champions Cup field: América, Chivas, Monterrey, Toluca, Tigres, Cruz Azul, Pachuca and Pumas have also qualified.
