CS Cartagines 3-1 International San Carlos: Los Brumosos Bounce Back in Style

Match Date: July 26, 2026 | Venue: Estadio José Rafael Fello Meza, Cartago

CS Cartagines returned to winning ways in the Costa Rica Primera Division with a commanding 3-1 victory over International San Carlos on Sunday morning. The home side, known as Los Brumosos, produced a polished attacking display to secure all three points at their fortress in Cartago.

First-Half Dominance

From the opening whistle, Cartagines took control of the midfield and pinned San Carlos deep inside their own half. The breakthrough came in the 23rd minute when a swift counter-attack caught the visiting defence off guard. A well-timed through ball split the centre-backs, and the forward slotted home calmly past the goalkeeper. Cartagines doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark with a powerful header from a corner kick, leaving San Carlos with a mountain to climb.

San Carlos Fight Back, But Cartagines Seal the Win

The visitors showed character early in the second half, pulling one goal back in the 52nd minute. A speculative long-range strike took a deflection and looped over the Cartagines keeper, giving International San Carlos a lifeline. However, the momentum shift was short-lived. Cartagines responded with a spell of pressure and restored their two-goal cushion in the 68th minute. A clinical finish from a tight angle made it 3-1 and effectively ended the contest.

Key Performers

• Cartagines forward line: The attacking trio caused constant problems with movement off the ball and finishing accuracy.
• Midfield engine: Cartagines' central midfielders dominated the duels and controlled the tempo after the initial setback.
• San Carlos response: Despite the defeat, the visitors showed resilience with their second-half goal and created a couple of dangerous chances on the break.

League Standings Impact

The three points lift Cartagines into the upper half of the Primera Division table, continuing their push for a playoff spot. San Carlos remain in the lower reaches and need to address defensive frailties if they are to climb away from the relegation zone.

With this result, Cartagines have now won four of their last six home matches, reinforcing their reputation as a tough side to beat at the Fello Meza.