1-0. Alianza defeats Umecit and stays alive in the Copa Centroamericana

Alianza achieved a crucial 1-0 victory against Umecit on Thursday, securing their initial points in the Copa Centroamericana and maintaining their chances of advancing to the next round. The defeat confirmed Umecit's elimination from the tournament.

The match began intensely in midfield, with both teams showing initiative but neither establishing clear control. Alianza created the first significant chance in the 27th minute when Anthony Stewart's shot went wide. Just three minutes later, Reyniel Perdomo's through ball found Alvin Mendoza, who scored the game's only goal with a powerful right-footed strike past Umecit's goalkeeper Luis Lazo.

Following the goal, Alianza continued their offensive approach. Stewart had another opportunity in the 37th minute, but his shot was saved by Lazo. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Alianza seeking to extend their lead through direct play and Umecit attempting to equalize on the counter-attack.

Umecit had several chances to level the score, notably through Hiberto Peralta in the 63rd minute and later through José Marengo and Gilberto Rangel, whose shots went off target. In the 86th minute, Erick Rodríguez's attempt was denied by a strong save from Alianza's goalkeeper Jean Ambuila, preserving the 1-0 lead. Alianza will face Olimpia of Honduras in their next match, a key fixture for qualification in Group C.