Three-time champions LD Alajuelense return to defend Central American Cup crown

Alajuelense Returns to Defend Its Central American Cup Crown

MIAMI – The 2026 Concacaf Central American Cup kicks off on July 28, with three-time champions LD Alajuelense returning to defend their title and continue adding to their remarkable legacy for both the club and Costa Rica.

Already one of the region's most successful clubs, LD Alajuelense has established itself as the benchmark of the Concacaf Central American Cup. Los Manudos are the only team to have won the competition, lifting the trophy in each of the tournament's first three editions, most recently in 2025.

Heading into the 2026 campaign, LD Alajuelense is also the only club to have competed in every round of the tournament. They lead the all-time standings with 18 victories and have scored a tournament-best 53 goals.

The club enjoyed a memorable 2025 season, completing a domestic and regional double by capturing a third consecutive Central American Cup title before winning the Apertura 2025 championship in Costa Rica's top division.

Several players have helped shape Alajuelense's dominance in the tournament. Diego Campos is the club's all-time leading scorer in the competition with eight goals, while Aarón Suárez is the club's all-time assist leader in the Central American Cup.

Key contributors from last year's title-winning side also return for the 2026 edition. Goalkeeper Washington Ortega and midfielder Rodolfo Cisneros will once again look to lead La Liga as the club pursues an unprecedented fourth consecutive Central American Cup crown.