Chico Díaz scores in Barcelona's home defeat in Ecuador

Barcelona de Guayaquil suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Macará in the Liga Pro on Saturday, a result that further exacerbates the club's ongoing administrative and football crisis. The loss, which occurred during the 24th round of the league, saw Macará's midfielder Mateo Viera score twice, while Paraguayan forward Sergio "Chico" Díaz netted Barcelona's only goal.

Macará's victory positions them to potentially secure a spot in the 2027 Copa Libertadores, while deepening the woes of the Guayaquil club. Barcelona remains in fifth place with 35 points, while Macará temporarily moves to second with 41 points, awaiting the result of Universidad Católica's match. This defeat follows a previous 1-0 home loss to Liga de Quito and comes shortly after the resignation of club president Antonio Álvarez.

Fans expressed their frustration during the latter stages of the match against Macará, protesting against the players and Venezuelan coach César Farías. For Díaz, this was his second goal in six appearances for Barcelona, having recently joined from Sportivo Luqueño.