Alajuelense Clinches Copa Title with Narrow Victory
Joel Campbell's penalty secures 1-0 win over Puntarenas in hotly contested Copa final.
On March 22, 2025, Liga Deportiva Alajuelense secured the Copa title, defeating Puntarenas FC 1-0 in a tense final held at Estadio Nacional.
Joel Campbell scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 65th minute, following a controversial foul by Puntarenas goalkeeper Leonel Moreira, which was reviewed by VAR.
This victory marks Alajuelense's eleventh Copa title, equalizing their record with Herediano.
The match showcased a dynamic and closely contested environment, with both teams chasing their goals.
Alajuelense entered the match with significant pressure, having aspirations for upcoming international competitions, including the FIFA Club World Cup.
A defeat could have amplified criticisms of their performance in domestic tournaments.
In the initial half, both defenses showed strength, limiting scoring opportunities.
The only notable chance came when Alajuelense's young player Isaac Badilla missed a good opportunity, shooting over the bar after a strong play from Jeison Lucumí.
The second half intensified, with notable attempts from both sides, including a close shot by Aarón Salazar that struck the post.
The pivotal moment arrived when Moreira fouled Larry Angulo in the penalty area.
Referee Pablo Camacho initially ruled the foul outside the box, but the VAR intervention confirmed the penalty decision.
Campbell successfully converted the penalty, placing Alajuelense in the lead.
Following the goal, Puntarenas increased their efforts to equalize but struggled to create clear chances.
The contest remained intense until the final whistle, with Alajuelense managing to hold on to their lead despite late pressure from Puntarenas.
This victory is particularly significant as it solidifies Alajuelense's status in Costa Rican football, especially amidst their ongoing legal battle related to the FIFA Club World Cup eligibility.
After the match, Joel Campbell expressed gratitude towards his team and fans, stating his happiness and dedication to the club despite facing challenges in recent weeks.
He acknowledged the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst external pressures.
Fellow player Celso Borges commended the contributions of the younger players, highlighting their crucial roles in the team’s success.
With this result, Alajuelense not only adds another trophy to their cabinet but also prepares for future challenges in both domestic and international arenas.
Joel Campbell scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the 65th minute, following a controversial foul by Puntarenas goalkeeper Leonel Moreira, which was reviewed by VAR.
This victory marks Alajuelense's eleventh Copa title, equalizing their record with Herediano.
The match showcased a dynamic and closely contested environment, with both teams chasing their goals.
Alajuelense entered the match with significant pressure, having aspirations for upcoming international competitions, including the FIFA Club World Cup.
A defeat could have amplified criticisms of their performance in domestic tournaments.
In the initial half, both defenses showed strength, limiting scoring opportunities.
The only notable chance came when Alajuelense's young player Isaac Badilla missed a good opportunity, shooting over the bar after a strong play from Jeison Lucumí.
The second half intensified, with notable attempts from both sides, including a close shot by Aarón Salazar that struck the post.
The pivotal moment arrived when Moreira fouled Larry Angulo in the penalty area.
Referee Pablo Camacho initially ruled the foul outside the box, but the VAR intervention confirmed the penalty decision.
Campbell successfully converted the penalty, placing Alajuelense in the lead.
Following the goal, Puntarenas increased their efforts to equalize but struggled to create clear chances.
The contest remained intense until the final whistle, with Alajuelense managing to hold on to their lead despite late pressure from Puntarenas.
This victory is particularly significant as it solidifies Alajuelense's status in Costa Rican football, especially amidst their ongoing legal battle related to the FIFA Club World Cup eligibility.
After the match, Joel Campbell expressed gratitude towards his team and fans, stating his happiness and dedication to the club despite facing challenges in recent weeks.
He acknowledged the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst external pressures.
Fellow player Celso Borges commended the contributions of the younger players, highlighting their crucial roles in the team’s success.
With this result, Alajuelense not only adds another trophy to their cabinet but also prepares for future challenges in both domestic and international arenas.
