Herediano Dominates Clásico Nacional with Impressive 2–0 Win Over Saprissa

Costa Rica Primera División – 17 May 2026 – CS Herediano delivered a commanding performance in the latest edition of the Clásico Nacional, defeating Deportivo Saprissa 2–0 at their home ground. The victory was a statement of intent from Herediano, who controlled the tempo from the first whistle and never allowed the visitors to settle into their rhythm.

Match Overview

In front of a passionate home crowd, Herediano took the lead early through a well-worked set piece. Midfielder Yeltsin Tejeda rose highest to nod home a corner in the 12th minute, giving his side a deserved advantage. The goal set the tone for a first half in which the home team dominated possession and created several clear chances.

Saprissa struggled to find their footing against a disciplined Herediano defense that pressed aggressively and closed down space quickly. The visitors' best opportunity came just before half‑time, but a sharp save from Herediano goalkeeper Leonardo Quirós kept the scoreline intact.

Key Moments

• 12' – Goal! Yeltsin Tejeda powers a header past Saprissa’s keeper from a corner.
• 38' – Saprissa chance – Mariano Torres forces a fingertip save from Quirós.
• 67' – Second yellow – Saprissa’s Kendall Waston sees a second yellow card, reducing the visitors to ten men.
• 83' – Goal! Substitute Anthony Contreras races onto a through ball and slots home to seal the win.

Tactical Story

Herediano’s high press and quick transitions were the difference. Manager Jeaustin Campos set his team up in a 4‑2‑3‑1, with Tejeda pulling the strings in midfield. Saprissa, by contrast, looked disjointed in their 4‑4‑2 and failed to create sustained pressure. The red card for Waston – for a second bookable offense – effectively ended any hopes of a comeback.

Standout Players

• Yeltsin Tejeda (Herediano) – Scored the opening goal and controlled the midfield.
• Leonardo Quirós (Herediano) – Made two crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
• Kendall Waston (Saprissa) – A night to forget, ending with a red card.

Season Impact

The result keeps Herediano firmly in the race for the Primera División title, while Saprissa’s hopes take a dent as they slip further off the pace in the Apertura 2026 standings. With this win, Herediano also extends their unbeaten home run against Saprissa to four matches.