CSD Antofagasta edged out Cobresal with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in the Chilean Cup on July 13, 2026, at their home ground. A solitary goal proved enough to send the home side through in a match that was as intense as it was tight.

Match Overview

Playing in front of an energetic crowd, Antofagasta knew the importance of a strong start in the cup competition. Cobresal, meanwhile, arrived with confidence but struggled to break down a disciplined home defence. The first half saw few clear chances, with both midfields cancelling each other out. The breakthrough came just after the hour mark, when a slick passing move carved open the Cobresal backline. A neat finish from close range gave the Antofagasta fans reason to celebrate and ultimately decided the tie.

Key Moments

• 62nd minute: Antofagasta's winger cut inside from the right and played a one-two with the striker. The return pass split the defence, allowing the forward to slot calmly past the Cobresal goalkeeper.
• 78th minute: Cobresal almost equalised from a corner, but Antofagasta's goalkeeper produced a fine reflex save to keep his team ahead.
• 88th minute: A late surge from Cobresal saw a long-range effort whistle just over the crossbar, as Antofagasta held on for the win.

Tactical Story of the Match

Antofagasta set up in a compact 4-4-2, looking to absorb pressure and hit on the break. The game plan worked perfectly — they allowed Cobresal possession in non-threatening areas but pressed intensely in the final third. Cobresal, playing a 4-3-3, struggled to find their rhythm. Their wingers were kept quiet by Antofagasta's fullbacks, and the central midfield battle was won by the home side's tireless duo. The winning goal came from exactly the kind of transition Antofagasta had rehearsed all week.

Standout Performers

The Man of the Match was undoubtedly Antofagasta's centre-forward, who scored the decisive goal and held the ball up well under pressure. His movement created space for teammates throughout the night. In defence, the home side's central partnership was rock-solid, cutting out crosses and winning aerial duels. Cobresal's goalkeeper also deserves mention for several sharp saves that kept the scoreline respectable.

Impact on the Competition

With this 1-0 result, CSD Antofagasta advance in the Chilean Cup, building momentum for their league campaign as well. Cobresal, despite the loss, will take heart from a competitive performance but must now refocus on their domestic fixtures. The match demonstrated that even in cup competitions, small margins decide who moves on and who goes home.