The 2026 Peruvian Liga 2 season continued with a tightly contested fixture as Comerciantes FC edged out Alianza Universidad de Huánuco 1-0 at home on July 25. The result gave the Íquitos-based side a crucial three points in their push for promotion playoff places, maintaining their unbeaten run at the Estadio Max Augustín.

Match Overview

Both teams entered the match knowing the importance of points in a congested middle of the table. Comerciantes FC, backed by vocal home support, started brightly and controlled possession in the opening stages. However, Alianza Universidad de Huánuco defended resolutely, looking to hit on the counter through swift transitions. The first half ended goalless, with neither side able to break through despite several half-chances.

Decisive Moment

The deadlock was broken in the 67th minute. A well-worked move down the right flank saw full-back Jhonny Mena deliver a low cross into the box. Striker Luis Rentería got ahead of his marker to slot the ball past the goalkeeper from close range. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the home faithful and set the tone for a tense final 20 minutes.

Alianza Universidad pushed hard for an equalizer, throwing numbers forward in the closing stages. Comerciantes’ defense, marshalled by veteran centre-half Carlos Salazar, held firm. Goalkeeper Diego Fernández made two important saves in stoppage time, including a sharp reaction stop from a header, to preserve the clean sheet and the victory.

Tactical Story

Comerciantes lined up in a compact 4-4-2, relying on quick wide play and pressing high up the pitch. Alianza Universidad used a 4-3-3 formation but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a well-organized backline. The visitors’ midfield was often crowded out, forcing long-range efforts that rarely troubled the goalkeeper.

Standings Impact

The win lifted Comerciantes FC to fifth place in the Liga 2 standings with 28 points from 16 matches, keeping them within striking distance of the top four promotion playoff spots. Alianza Universidad remained in eighth place on 22 points, now three points adrift of the playoff zone with a game in hand.

The result also highlighted Comerciantes’ strong home form—they have now won six of their eight matches at the Estadio Max Augustín this season, a record that will give them confidence as the campaign enters its decisive phase.