Antigua GFC coach confident despite 'group of death' draw in Copa Centroamericana

Antigua GFC faces a daunting challenge in the 2026 Copa Centroamericana after being drawn into the tournament's "group of death." The Guatemalan club will compete against formidable opponents, including Costa Rica's champions Herediano and Honduras's Marathón, alongside Nicaragua's Real Estelí and El Salvador's Alianza.

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I believe it's a very demanding group.

The draw, held Tuesday, placed Antigua GFC in a highly competitive group where only the top two teams from each section will advance. This demanding format means every point will be crucial, and any misstep could lead to an early exit from the region's premier tournament.

Despite the tough draw, Antigua GFC's Argentine coach, Mauricio Tapia, remains optimistic about his team's capabilities. He acknowledged the strength of their opponents, noting Herediano's defensive solidity and attacking prowess, Real Estelí's direct play, Alianza's significant squad changes, and Marathón's typical Honduran physicality. "I believe it's a very demanding group," Tapia told Prensa Libre.

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We have maintained the block from the middle to the back with few changes, but from the middle forward we have modified quite a bit. Everything will depend on how the new players assimilate the work. Are we good enough to compete? We believe so.

Tapia also detailed the internal adjustments within Antigua GFC, particularly in the offensive lineup, while maintaining a stable defensive core. "We have maintained the block from the middle to the back with few changes, but from the middle forward we have modified quite a bit. Everything will depend on how the new players assimilate the work. Are we good enough to compete? We believe so," he stated. He concluded by emphasizing the team's primary objective: "The demand on us is to prepare well, compete, and try to advance, which is the main goal."

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The demand on us is to prepare well, compete, and try to advance, which is the main goal.