Alianza Atlético Sullana and UTC Cajamarca played out a tense 1-1 draw in the Copa de la Liga on 26 August 2026, with both sides forced to settle for a point in a match that produced moments of quality but no outright winner. The result at the Estadio Campeones del 36 kept both teams in the thick of the mid-table battle, though neither could claim a decisive edge in what was a tightly contested encounter.

Match Overview

The fixture was always shaping up to be a tactical duel, with Alianza Atlético eager to make home advantage count and UTC Cajamarca displaying their characteristic resilience away from home. From the opening whistle, Sullana pressed high and looked to exploit the flanks, while Cajamarca sat deep and aimed to hit on the counter. The balance of play shifted frequently, and the 1-1 scoreline reflected a game where both defences had to work hard to keep the scoreline level.

Key Moments

• 11' – Early pressure pays off for Alianza: The home side broke the deadlock with a well-worked move down the right wing, finished with a composed low drive across the UTC goalkeeper.
• 38' – UTC respond before half-time: Cajamarca levelled against the run of play, converting a swift counter-attack with a first-time strike from inside the box after a defensive lapse in the Sullana backline.
• 67' – Woodwork denies the hosts: Alianza Atlético came closest to regaining the lead when a curling free-kick from the edge of the area cannoned back off the crossbar, leaving the home fans with their heads in their hands.
• 85' – Goalkeeper heroics at both ends: A late flurry saw both keepers make crucial saves, preserving the 1-1 scoreline and ensuring a share of the spoils.

Tactical Story

Alianza Atlético controlled large spells of possession, particularly in the first half, but struggled to break down a disciplined UTC defensive block. Their full-backs pushed high, but this left space behind for Cajamarca's quick forwards to exploit. UTC, meanwhile, were content to absorb pressure and rely on set pieces and quick transitions. The equaliser came from exactly that plan, exposing the high line at the back. In the second half, Sullana introduced fresh legs in midfield to add more creativity, but despite their territorial dominance, they could not force a winning goal.

Standout Players

• Jeremy Rostaing (Alianza Atlético): The winger was a constant threat down the left, creating two clear chances and delivering dangerous crosses throughout the game.
• Jarlín Quintero (UTC Cajamarca): The central defender was a rock at the back for Cajamarca, making several key interceptions and winning crucial aerial duels in the final 20 minutes.
• Both goalkeepers: Each shot-stopper made at least three notable saves in the second half alone, earning their respective teams a valuable point.

Table and Season Impact

The draw leaves both sides firmly in the middle of the Copa de la Liga group standings, with Alianza Atlético Sullana and UTC Cajamarca now sharing an identical points tally after the opening rounds. For Sullana, it was a missed opportunity to leapfrog their opponents on home turf, while UTC will take confidence from their ability to grind out a result on the road. With the group stage still in its early phase, the point could prove significant later in the campaign as teams chase progression to the knockout rounds.

The match also highlighted the competitive nature of the Copa de la Liga, where small margins often separate the teams. Both sets of players will now turn their attention to the next round, knowing that consistency will be key if they are to challenge for a top spot in the standings.