Liga Deportiva Alajuelense secured its first win of the Clausura 2026 tournament with a last-minute goal by Isaac Badilla, defeating San Carlos 1-0 at Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto. The match was closely contested, with Alajuelense struggling to break through San Carlos’s defense until the decisive moment.
Badilla scored his first top-flight goal in the 90th minute, following an assist from Joel Campbell. His shot found the net past Salvadoran goalkeeper Mario González. This late goal ended a run of two draws and one loss for the reigning champions, who now have five points after four matches in the competition.
San Carlos had started their campaign with a defeat against Pérez Zeledón but followed up with wins over Sporting and Puntarenas FC. In this fixture, they focused on defense during the closing stages, making it difficult for Alajuelense to find opportunities.
Alajuelense coach Óscar Ramírez made tactical changes during the game, including bringing on Tristán Demetrius and Joel Campbell as substitutes in search of a breakthrough. The home crowd responded with increased support as pressure mounted on their team to secure a victory.
San Carlos coach Wálter Centeno commented before the match: “On Saturday we have a big test; we’re going to play against the champion. We know about their current situation, but that’s not true—it’s absolutely not true—because Alajuelense in Alajuela is still Alajuelense.” He added: “These days it’s no secret that they (Alajuelense) are doing well overall. That they haven’t started well is just a story.”
Ramírez acknowledged his team’s lack of coordination and passing errors under little pressure but noted that he expected some difficulties in the opening five games due to schedule congestion.
The match also saw Washington Ortega return for Alajuelense after injury, while several players remain sidelined.
The officiating team included David Gómez as referee, assisted by Víctor Ramírez and Fabián Baltodano. VAR duties were handled by Yazid Monge and Anthony Bravo.
Supporters could watch the game live on FUTV or listen via various radio stations such as Columbia (98.7 FM), Monumental (93.5 FM), Teletica Radio (91.5 FM), and Radio Actual (107.1 FM).
