Match overview
In a key clash at the Estadio Mansiche in Trujillo, Universitario de Deportes defeated Alianza Atlético 0-2 on the 12th matchday of the Torneo Clausura 2025. The result reinforced Universitario’s position at the top of the standings, keeping them firmly in the race for what could become a historic tricampeonato. The crowd was sizable—an eager mix of home supporters and traveling fans—seasoned with the atmosphere of a title-contending squad riding momentum into the stretch run.
From the opening whistle, the favorite label rested with the homegrown powerhouse next to Callejón del Campo and the Merengue faithful, who trusted their side to convert opportunities when they mattered most. Alianza Atlético, disciplined and organized, matched the energy early on but were unable to weather Universitario’s late surge as the minutes ticked by.
First half: a tight affair
The first half unfolded with caution from both sides. Play moved quickly, yet clear-cut chances were scarce in the opening 45 minutes. Universitario showed flashes of intent—short combinations and intelligent runs—while Alianza Atlético pressed high at moments to disrupt the visitors’ buildup. The best moments came on counterattacks and set pieces, but the final ball or finish eluded both teams, leaving the scoreline blank at the break.
As the teams retreated to the dressing rooms, Jorge Fossati’s men understood that patience would be key. The plan appeared straightforward: protect the midfield, maintain compact lines, and threaten decisively when the opportunity presented itself in the second half.
Second half and the decisive goals
The turning point arrived in the 69th minute when Martín Pérez Guedes produced a precise shot that slipped into the near corner, beating Diego Melián and giving Universitario a 0-1 lead. It was the kind of goal that underscored the visitors’ tactical discipline: a well-timed break, a composed finish, and the goalkeeper with little chance to react. The goal energized Universitario’s supporters and shifted the match’s tone, with Alianza Atlético forced to chase the game.
With the clock winding down, Universitario extended their advantage. At 87 minutes, José Rivera sealed the result in a counterattack finish, making it 0-2 and delivering a climax that the traveling contingent celebrated with gusto. The late goal punctuated a controlled performance by Universitario, who managed the game effectively in the final stretch and defended their slim but crucial lead against a persistent opponent.
Key moments and player performances
Beyond the goals, the match showcased Universitario’s strategic balance and resilience. The midfield trio worked diligently to disrupt Alianza Atlético’s rhythm, while the backline maintained solidity under pressure. Pérez Guedes’s strike demonstrated individual quality in a game that demanded patience, while Rivera showed his timing and composure in the closing stages to cap the victory. For Alianza Atlético, the effort was admirable, but a lack of clinical finishing in the final third left them short of breakthroughs against a well-drilled defense.
Implications for Clausura 2025
With this win, Universitario extended their lead at the top of the Clausura standings, reinforcing their status as the team to beat in Peru’s current campaign. The result places them with an eye on a potential tricampeonato, as they accumulate points at a crucial juncture of the season. Alianza Atlético, on the other hand, will need to regroup quickly, analyzing where adjustments can be made to arrest the momentum of the league leaders in upcoming fixtures.
Looking ahead
As the Clausura 2025 schedule continues, Universitario’s focus will likely be on maintaining consistency across remaining fixtures, balancing domestic duties with the expectations of a demanding title chase. The team’s next tests will determine whether this victory can translate into an extended run at the summit or if further battles lie ahead as the calendar moves toward the decisive stretch.
Bottom line
A 0-2 win in Trujillo confirmed Universitario’s status as leaders and reinforced their ambitions for a historic season. The goals from Pérez Guedes and Rivera provided the margin needed to secure the result, while the collective effort suggested a squad that can adapt and prevail when it matters most.
