Sociedad Deportiva Aucas 2–1 CD Universidad Católica | LigaPro Serie A | 10 May 2026

In a pulsating encounter at Estadio Gonzalo Pozo Ripalda, S.D. Aucas edged out C.D. Universidad Católica 2–1 to consolidate their grip on a top‑six finish in the Ecuadorian LigaPro Serie A. The visitors fought back after a disastrous start, but Aucas’ early intensity proved enough to take all three points.

Lightning Start for the Home Side

Aucas flew out of the blocks. Inside the first ten minutes, Luis “Choclo” Quilumba latched onto a through ball and fired past the Católica goalkeeper to give the home side a 1‑0 lead. They doubled their advantage in the 22nd minute when Jhon Jairo Cifuentes volleyed in from a cross after a flowing team move. Católica looked shell‑shocked, unable to cope with Aucas’ high press.

Católica’s Response and Second‑Half Push

Católica gradually steadied themselves. Just before half‑time, Ismael Díaz pulled one back with a crisp finish from the edge of the box, giving the visitors a lifeline. The second half was one‑way traffic: Católica dominated possession and created several chances, but Aucas goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez produced a string of fine saves, including a stunning stop to deny a close‑range header in the 78th minute.

Aucas absorbed the pressure and almost added a third on the counter, but the scoreline remained 2–1.

Key Takeaways

• Aucas – clinical finishing in the opening period, solid defensive organisation when under siege.
• CD Universidad Católica – wasteful in front of goal despite dominating the second half; Díaz’s strike was a rare moment of quality.
• Hernán Galíndez – the veteran goalkeeper’s heroics earned Aucas the win.

League Picture

The win moved Aucas up to fifth in the LigaPro table with 29 points from 16 matches, firmly in the Copa Libertadores qualification places. Católica slipped to seventh, but remain within touching distance of the top six. Aucas’ next assignment is a tricky away match at LDU Quito; Católica will look to bounce at home against Guayaquil City.