ANTIGUA, Guatemala – Antigua GFC earned a 2-1 win against Club Atlético Independiente in the 2024 Concacaf Central American Cup on Tuesday at the Pensativo Stadium in Antigua, Guatemala.
Martín Ruíz struck inside the penalty area in the 26' to place the visitors in front.
Santiago Gómez tied the encounter in the 49' with a header in the box to convert on a corner kick opportunity. Cristian Hernández delivered the pinpoint service from the corner flag to earn the assist.
Alexander Robinson nearly extended the lead for the hosts in the 62’ with a right-footed hit at the right post.
Anthony Stewart had a valiant effort off a counterattack in the 67’, but his shot was wide.
Juan González struck on goal in the 74’, but Antigua goalkeeper Luis Morán denied the visitors.
Romario da Silva struck a header in the box in the 81' to seal the match-winner. The opportunity stemmed from a cross by Angel Diaz from the left flank out to the right side of the penalty area, where José Espinoza delivered the final pass.
José Espinoza had a look from outside the box in the 90'+4, but the attempt ended at the hands of CAI goalkeeper Eddie Roberts.
The result marks Antigua's second victory of the campaign and improves the Guatemalan club’s standing to first place in Group C with seven points in hand. Antigua will meet CD Olimpia on August 29 in a battle for the top spot in the group.
CAI continues searching for its first point after two encounters. After playing two matches away, the Panamanians will play at home on August 21 when they host Port Layola FC.
