Nacional make a statement with emphatic win over Libertad

Nacional turned a difficult test into a convincing 3-0 victory over Libertad in Barrio Obrero, delivering the kind of performance that makes a title challenge look credible.

The match at La Visera was fast, intense and open, with both teams repeatedly looking for the opposing goal. Nacional took control early when a cross from Cardozo Lucena led to a handball in an unnatural position by Libertad defender Robert Rojas. Hugo Adrián Benítez converted the resulting penalty with a powerful strike.

Libertad had more possession after falling behind, but struggled to create clear opportunities. Nacional goalkeeper Kili Rojas stopped efforts from Giménez and Sanabria, while Nacional’s defense remained firm. At the other end, goalkeeper Rodrigo Morínigo made two important saves to deny Prieto and Benítez.

Libertad began the second half aggressively, and Elvio Vera came close with an effort that skimmed the crossbar. Nacional then doubled its lead after Libertad captain Álvaro Campuzano failed to clear the ball. Leandro Meza collected it and finished without difficulty.

Libertad gradually lost momentum. Its substitutions did not raise the level, and Nacional took advantage again when Hugo Iván Valdez converted Richard Prieto’s excellent through ball for 3-0. What had looked like an even contest ended as a comfortable Nacional win, reinforcing the team’s credentials in the Clausura 2026 title race.