Coquimbo Unido defeated Unión La Calera 1-0 in the first leg of the Copa de la Liga semifinals, thanks to a goal by Luis Riveros. The victory gives Coquimbo a critical advantage as they head into the second leg on July 12, with the winner of the tournament earning a berth in the 2027 Copa Libertadores, according to match reports from TNT Sports.
How did Coquimbo Unido secure the first-leg win?
Luis Riveros scored the lone goal of the match after receiving an assist from Nicolás Johansen. TNT Sports reported that Johansen’s individual play created the space necessary for Riveros, a former player for Audax and UdeC, to find the net unmarked.
While Unión La Calera created several scoring opportunities, they struggled with finishing. The match remained a tight affair, leaving the “Piratas” with a one-goal lead heading into the return fixture.
Why is there controversy surrounding the officiating?
The closing minutes of the match were marked by a disputed non-call involving Benjamín Gazzolo. A cross into the visiting area struck Gazzolo’s hand, which Unión La Calera players and staff claimed was a clear penalty. Neither referee Mathias Riquelme nor the VAR intervened to award the foul.
Martín Cicotello, the strategist for Unión La Calera, expressed his frustration to TNT Sports, stating, “It is the referee’s decision. The same thing happened in the championship. We weren’t lucky enough to have it called. It surprises me that it wasn’t reviewed.”
What happens next in the Copa de la Liga 2026?
The semifinal series concludes with a second leg between Coquimbo Unido and Unión La Calera on Sunday, July 12. The match is scheduled for 15:00 hours at the Estadio Francisco Sánchez Rumoroso.
The other semifinal pairing features Ñublense and O’Higgins, who are scheduled to play their opening match on July 9 starting at 19:00 hours.
Match Summary Comparison
| Detail | Coquimbo Unido | Unión La Calera |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 1 | 0 |
| Key Player | Luis Riveros (Goal) | Benjamín Gazzolo (Controversy) |
| Outcome | Advantage for 2nd leg | Must win to advance |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the goal in the Coquimbo vs. La Calera match?
Luis Riveros scored the only goal of the match following an assist from Nicolás Johansen.
When is the second leg of the semifinal?
The return match takes place Sunday, July 12, at 15:00 hours at the Estadio Francisco Sánchez Rumoroso.
What is the prize for winning the Copa de la Liga?
The winner earns a qualification spot for the 2027 Copa Libertadores.
What do you think about the VAR decision regarding the handball? Was it a clear penalty? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more football updates.
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