Audax Italiano debuted in Copa Chile with a loss to Deportes Santa Cruz

Audax Italiano began their Copa Chile 2026 campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat against Deportes Santa Cruz. The match, held at the Estadio Bicentenario de La Florida and part of Group G's third fixture, saw Audax dominate possession but fail to breach the defense of their opponents from the Primera B league.

The decisive goal came from a set piece in the 61st minute. Felipe Orellana found the net for Santa Cruz following a corner kick, securing the victory for his team. Audax Italiano's situation worsened late in the game when Daniel Piña received a direct red card in the 87th minute, leaving his team with ten players.

This result places Deportes Santa Cruz at the top of Group G with a perfect record of nine points from three wins. Palestino is second, with Audax Italiano in third, and Magallanes at the bottom due to a worse goal difference. Audax Italiano is scheduled to play Palestino on Tuesday, June 23, to catch up on their first Copa Chile match. Santa Cruz will also face Palestino later in the tournament.