Herediano Triumphs in Costa Rica Supercopa with Gritty 1-0 Victory Over Alajuelense

LD Alajuelense 0–1 CS Herediano
Costa Rica Supercopa de Costa Rica – Final, July 13, 2026

CS Herediano claimed the 2026 Costa Supercopa de Costa Rica title with a determined 1-0 win over archrivals LD Alajuelense at a packed Estadio Nacional on July 13. The solitary goal, scored in the second half, was enough to decide a closely contested encounter that showcased the defensive resilience and tactical discipline of the Herediano side.

Match Overview

The Supercopa, which pits the previous season's Primera División champion against the Copa Costa Rica winner, lived up to its billing as a high-stakes derby. Alajuelense, the league champions, started brightly, dominating possession in the opening stages. However, Herediano—the cup winners—absorbed early pressure and grew into the game, slowly tilting the field in their favor.

The first half saw few clear-cut chances. Alajuelense's creative midfielder, Joel Campbell, came closest with a drive from the edge of the box that flew just wide. Herediano, meanwhile, relied on quick counterattacks, with winger Yendrick Ruiz testing Alajuelense goalkeeper Leonel Moreira with a low shot. The teams went into the break level at 0-0.

Key Moment: The Winning Goal

The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute. Herediano's center-forward, Anthony Contreras, latched onto a long ball from defender Keysher Fuller, held off his marker, and laid it off to Yendrick Ruiz, who slotted a composed finish past Moreira from 12 yards. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Herediano bench, but the team then retreated into a compact defensive shape to protect their lead.

Tactical Story: Herediano's Defensive Masterclass

Coach Geiner Segura set up his Herediano side in a disciplined 4-4-2 low block, designed to frustrate Alajuelense's flowing attack. Midfielders Elias Aguilar and Orlando Galo worked tirelessly to close down space, forcing Alajuelense into wide areas where crosses were easily cleared by veteran center-back Pablo Arboine. Alajuelense, under coach Albert Rudé, pushed for an equalizer with late substitutions—including the introduction of striker Jonathan Moya—but Herediano's backline remained resolute.

• Possession: Alajuelense 58% – 42% Herediano
• Shots on target: Alajuelense 3 – 4 Herediano
• Corners: Alajuelense 7 – 2 Herediano

Herediano's game plan was clear: absorb pressure, hit on the break, and defend with numbers. It worked to perfection, with Moreira making a crucial save from an Alajuelense header in stoppage time.

Standout Players

• Yendrick Ruiz (Herediano): Scored the only goal and provided a constant threat on the counter with his pace and direct running.
• Keysher Fuller (Herediano): Solid at right-back, contributing to the winning move and making several important tackles.
• Leonel Moreira (Alajuelense): Despite the loss, the goalkeeper made three fine saves to keep his team in the game.

Impact and Supercopa History

This victory gives Herediano their third Supercopa de Costa Rica title, moving them level with Alajuelense in the all-time standings (both now with three wins). For Alajuelense, the defeat stings as they missed the chance to complete a domestic double (league + Supercopa) for the first time since 2013.

The result also extends Herediano's recent dominance in head-to-head cup finals, having beaten Alajuelense in the 2024 Copa Costa Rica final as well. The 2026 Supercopa will be remembered as a tactical chess match where one moment of brilliance decided the winner.