Cobreloa eliminates La Serena from Copa Chile after controversial goal

Cobreloa has eliminated Deportes La Serena from the Copa Chile with a narrow 1-0 victory in Calama, advancing to the next stage of the tournament.

The crucial match, played on the final day of the group stage, saw both teams vying for second place in Group C behind the already qualified Deportes Antofagasta. La Serena held onto a draw for much of the game, a result that would have seen them progress.

However, a controversial goal by Cobreloa's Juan Ignacio Duma in the 60th minute decided the contest. The "papayeros" protested an offside call against the striker, but without VAR in the tournament, the referee's decision stood. Cobreloa secured the win and finished with eight points, one ahead of La Serena.

This result means two Primera Division teams, La Serena and Cobresal, have been eliminated from the Copa Chile, joining Universidad de Concepción, Palestino, and Huachipato. Cobreloa's victory highlights the competitive nature of the tournament, with teams from the Ascenso division proving strong contenders.