Universidad Católica edged past CD Copiapó S.A. 2–1 in a hard-fought Chilean Cup encounter on July 5, 2026, to advance to the next round. The match, played at a neutral venue due to Cup logistics, saw the Crusaders recover from an early setback to secure victory through a second-half resurgence.

Match Overview

The contest began with Copiapó showing no signs of intimidation against the more decorated side. The visitors took a shock lead in the 24th minute when a swift counterattack caught the Católica defense off guard, with striker Matías Donoso slotting home from close range. That goal, however, proved to be the wake-up call Católica needed.

Católica leveled just before halftime. A clever through ball from Luciano Aued found Diego Valencia, who calmly chipped the ball over the advancing Copiapó goalkeeper to make it 1–1. The equalizer shifted momentum firmly in Católica’s favor heading into the break.

Second-Half Dominance

After the restart, Universidad Católica took control of possession and pinned Copiapó deep in their own half. The winning goal arrived in the 67th minute when Cristian Cuevas unleashed a powerful left-footed drive from the edge of the box that deflected off a defender and nestled into the bottom corner.

Copiapó pushed for an equalizer in the final 15 minutes, but the Católica defense, marshaled by veteran center-back Gary Kagelmacher, held firm. Goalkeeper Sebastián Pérez made a crucial save in stoppage time to preserve the narrow lead.

Key Statistics

• Possession: Católica 58% – 42% Copiapó
• Shots on target: Católica 7 – Copiapó 4
• Corners: Católica 6 – Copiapó 3
• Fouls committed: Católica 12 – Copiapó 15

What This Means

For Universidad Católica, the win keeps their Chilean Cup campaign alive as they aim to add a fourth domestic cup title to their trophy cabinet. The Crusaders have a rich history in the competition, having won it three times previously (1983, 2004, 2017).

For CD Copiapó, the defeat ends a spirited Cup run. The Primera División side can take pride in their performance against a historic rival, but the early goal proved insufficient as Católica’s quality told in the end.

Looking Ahead

Católica will now await the draw for the next round, where they could face another top-flight opponent. Manager Tiago Nunes will hope his side can build on this character-filled victory as they balance Cup commitments with their domestic league campaign.