Estrada's Brace Secures Dramatic Comeback Win for Liga de Quito Over Delfín
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Michael Estrada scored twice, including a dramatic late winner, to lead Liga de Quito to a 2-1 comeback victory over Delfín SC in the Liga Pro.
- The win marked Gustavo Álvarez's second consecutive victory and his first in the domestic league, following a dominant Copa Ecuador performance.
- Liga de Quito's victory keeps them in contention for top league positions and closer to direct qualification for the Copa Libertadores.
Michael Estrada spearheaded an epic comeback for Liga de Quito, scoring two goals, including a last-minute winner, to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over Delfín SC on Monday at the Rodrigo Paz Delgado stadium.
Liga dominated, but the VAR and Brian Heras prevented the goal.
This crucial win represents Gustavo Álvarez's second consecutive triumph since taking charge of the Quito club and his first in the Liga Pro. It follows a resounding 6-0 victory against Leones FC in the Copa Ecuador. The result propels Liga de Quito forward in the league standings, keeping them in the hunt for top positions and improving their chances for direct qualification to the Copa Libertadores.
Liga de Quito dominated possession and created the clearer chances throughout the match. However, a goal by Janner Corozo in the 45th minute was disallowed after a VAR review determined he was offside. In the second half, Estrada came close with a header in the 54th minute, but Delfín's goalkeeper Brian Heras made a spectacular save. Corozo missed the rebound, sending the ball over the crossbar.
Delfín struck first.
Delfín unexpectedly took the lead against the run of play in the 75th minute when Thiago Ozaeta headed home a precise cross, silencing the home crowd. However, Liga de Quito reacted swiftly. Estrada equalized with a powerful header from a Deyverson assist, finally beating the impressive Heras. Just as the match seemed headed for a draw, Estrada struck again in the final moments to seal the dramatic 2-1 victory, igniting celebrations among the fans.
Michael Estrada led the comeback.
With this win, Liga de Quito continues to build momentum under coach Gustavo Álvarez. In just two official matches, Álvarez has secured two victories, with his team scoring eight goals and showing a significant positive shift in morale. The team aims to maintain this strong run to climb higher in the league and secure a Copa Libertadores spot.
Liga continues to grow with Gustavo Álvarez.
Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.