Marcel Hernández scored twice to help Club Sport Herediano defeat Cartaginés 2-1 and maintain their lead in the Torneo Clausura 2026, according to an April 11 match report.
The result keeps Herediano at the top of the standings with 31 points, putting them four ahead of Saprissa and five clear of Cartaginés. The win was crucial for Herediano as they continue their push to finish first at the end of the tournament’s opening phase.
Hernández’s goals were decisive. After Douglas López put Cartaginés ahead with a free kick in the first half, Hernández equalized just before halftime. He then scored again in the second half after receiving a pass from Luis Ronaldo Araya, bringing his total to ten goals in this season’s tournament.
The match saw both teams creating chances early on, but it was Herediano who took control as time went on. Keyner Brown led a solid defensive effort for Herediano while Hernández played a key role up front. The team also overcame adversity before kickoff when their bus was damaged by objects thrown by fans outside Estadio Rafael Fello Meza de Cartago.
Cartaginés remains at 26 points and faces increased competition for playoff positions from Municipal Liberia, Alajuelense, and Sporting FC. Both teams have several important matches remaining that will determine their final standing in the league.
