

Alianza Atlético Sullana Brush Aside Sport Boys 3-0 in Copa de la Liga
Alianza Atlético Sullana delivered a dominant 3-0 victory over Sport Boys in the Copa de la Liga on October 7, 2026, booking their place in the next round with a clinical and commanding performance. The home side were superior in every department, scoring in each half and never allowing Sport Boys a foothold in the match.
The result eliminates Sport Boys from the competition and extends Alianza Atlético's unbeaten run in the tournament to five matches. It was a statement win that will have impressed the watching neutral supporters.
Match Overview
Alianza Atlético started on the front foot, pressing high and forcing Sport Boys into early mistakes. Their reward came in the 18th minute when Rodrigo Cuba intercepted a loose pass and fired home from the edge of the box. The home side continued to dominate, creating several chances before doubling their lead in the 54th minute through Iván Santillán, who finished off a slick team move.
Sport Boys tried to respond, but they were repeatedly caught on the counter-attack. Alianza Atlético put the game beyond doubt in the 77th minute when Marco Cárdenas curled a beautiful shot into the top corner. The closing stages were comfortable for the hosts, who managed the game expertly to secure a clean sheet.
Key Moments
- 18' – Alianza Atlético goal: Rodrigo Cuba punishes a defensive error with a low drive.
- 54' – Alianza Atlético goal: Iván Santillán converts a flowing team move.
- 77' – Alianza Atlético goal: Marco Cárdenas curls an exquisite effort into the top corner.
- 90' – Full time: Alianza Atlético progress comfortably; Sport Boys exit the competition.
Tactical Story
Alianza Atlético lined up in a 4-3-3 with an emphasis on high pressing and quick transitions. Their front three worked tirelessly to close down Sport Boys' defenders, and the midfield trio controlled the tempo. The full-backs provided width, allowing the wingers to drift inside and create numerical advantages in central areas.
Sport Boys attempted to play out from the back, but they were repeatedly dispossessed in dangerous areas. Their 4-2-3-1 lacked the intensity to match Alianza's pressing, and once they fell behind, they struggled to break down a well-organised defence. Alianza's ability to switch play quickly from side to side was a key factor in their dominance.
Standout Players
Marco Cárdenas was the standout performer, scoring a superb goal and providing an assist for Santillán's strike. His movement and link-up play caused constant problems. Rodrigo Cuba was also excellent, breaking the deadlock and driving forward from midfield. For Sport Boys, goalkeeper Andrés Gutiérrez made several saves to keep the scoreline respectable, but he was let down by his defence.
Tournament Impact
The victory sends Alianza Atlético Sullana into the next stage of the Copa de la Liga with confidence and momentum. They have now scored 12 goals in their last four matches, underlining their attacking threat. Sport Boys, meanwhile, exit the competition after a chastening evening, and their manager will be demanding a response in their next league fixture. For Alianza, the dream of lifting the Copa de la Liga trophy is very much alive.