In a tense encounter, Audax Italiano edged past Curicó Unido with a single goal, taking a significant lead in the Copa Chile’s third round. The match turned in favor of Audax when Leonardo Valencia found the back of the net in the 77th minute, sealing the match for the visitors.
Earlier in the match, Valencia had a chance to score first but unfortunately missed a penalty in the 54th minute, which could have given his team the upper hand sooner.
Valencia’s performance was the highlight of the match, as he not only scored the winning goal but also took two shots on target, establishing himself as the focal point of Audax’s attacking play. Meanwhile, Daniel Piña played a crucial role in defense, supporting the team’s solid backline.
Curicó, under coach Mauricio Benavente, employed a 4-3-3 formation, featuring Thomas Vergara in goal, with Francisco Oliver, Henry Sanhueza, Lionel Hidalgo, and Ronald De la Fuente in defense. The midfield comprised Carlos Herrera, Diego Rojas, and Felipe Ortiz, while Cristian Bustamante, Matias Retamal, and Nicolás Fernández led the attack.
Conversely, Audax Italiano, managed by Juan José Ribera, set up in a 3-5-2 formation, with Tomás Ahumada guarding the net. The defensive trio consisted of Cristóbal Muñoz, Enzo Ferrario, and Germán Guiffrey. The midfield was anchored by Jorge Espejo, Martín Jiménez, Oliver Rojas, Leonardo Valencia, and Marco Antonio Collao, while Alexis González and Nicolás Orellana spearheaded the attack.
The match was officiated by referee Héctor Jona Gamboa, whose decisions were crucial in maintaining the game’s flow.
Following this first leg victory, Audax Italiano heads into the return match with a clear advantage as they aim for a spot in the semifinals. The second leg is scheduled for July 16.
Curicó Unido Substitutions
57’ – Diego Rojas was replaced by Yerko Leiva and Nicolás Fernández was substituted for Ian Aliaga.
73’ – Felipe Ortiz was taken off for Braulio Guisolfo.
Yellow Cards for Curicó Unido:
25’ – Francisco Oliver, 37’ – Mauricio Benavente, 44’ – Ronald De la Fuente.
Audax Italiano Substitutions
45’ – Alexis González was replaced by Michael Vadulli and Martín Jiménez was substituted for Alessandro Riep.
80’ – Nicolás Orellana was taken off for Gastón Gil Romero, Cristian Bustamante was replaced by Williams Sáez, and Matias Retamal was substituted for Maximiliano Quinteros.
85’ – Germán Guiffrey was substituted for Daniel Piña.
87’ – Leonardo Valencia was taken off for Luis Riveros.
Yellow Card for Audax Italiano:
10’ – Enzo Ferrario.