Sport Huancayo secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Juan Pablo II in a thrilling Peruvian Liga 1 encounter at the Estadio Huancayo on May 11, 2026. The home side edged past their visitors with a second-half surge that proved decisive under the floodlights.

Match Overview

Playing in front of their passionate Andean supporters, Sport Huancayo dominated possession early but were caught off guard in the 23rd minute when Juan Pablo II struck first through a counter-attack finished by striker Luis Castillo. However, the home team responded with resilience, equalizing before halftime via a powerful header from center-back Carlos Gómez off a corner kick. The second half was tightly contested until the 67th minute, when Huancayo’s midfielder Jhon Vega curled a free kick into the top corner from 25 yards, leaving the visiting goalkeeper with no chance. Despite late pressure, the defense held firm for all three points.

Key Moments

• 23′ – Goal (Juan Pablo II): A quick break caught Huancayo’s high line, and Castillo slotted home from close range.
• 41′ – Equalizer (Sport Huancayo): Gómez rose highest to meet a precise corner and nodded past the keeper.
• 67′ – Winner (Sport Huancayo): Vega whipped a stunning set-piece over the wall and inside the far post.
• 85′ – Red Card (Juan Pablo II): Midfielder Diego Rojas was sent off for a second yellow card, ending the visitors’ hopes of a comeback.

Standout Players

Jhon Vega was the match-winner with his exquisite free-kick and tireless work in midfield. Carlos Gómez also impressed at both ends, scoring the equalizer and making crucial clearances. For Juan Pablo II, Luis Castillo was a menace on the counter and deserved his goal.

Season Impact

The victory lifts Huancayo into the top half of the Liga 1 standings, providing much-needed momentum after a midweek loss. Juan Pablo II remain in the relegation zone, now winless in four matches, and face increasing pressure as the season progresses. The result keeps Huancayo’s hopes alive for a spot in the Liguilla playoffs.