Calvo’s spectacular backheel gives Nacional victory over Peñarol in the clásico

Francisco Calvo settled the Uruguayan clásico with a spectacular backheel, giving Nacional a 1-0 victory over Peñarol at the Campeón del Siglo stadium.

Nacional created the decisive move from a corner on the left. Gastón Martirena delivered the ball, Luciano Boggio headed it back across the area, and the Costa Rican defender finished with his heel in the 24th minute.

Peñarol had an early chance to respond when Abel Hernández sent a free header wide. The home side increased the pressure after halftime, but its attacks lacked clarity. Luis Mejía denied Javier Cabrera in a one-on-one situation, while Maximiliano Olivera headed another opportunity off target.

Nacional also lost former Celta Vigo and Valencia striker Maxi Gómez to a left-leg injury after only 14 minutes. Despite that setback, its midfield controlled the match and disrupted Peñarol’s attacking play, including the influence of Argentine Cristian Leonel Jaime.

The result gave Daniel Carreño a second win in as many Clausura matches, only 13 days after he took charge. It was also his first clásico as Nacional coach in 23 years, and the victory returned the club to the title race after two opening defeats in the tournament.