Alianza Lima’s rough spell deepens after cup exit and league setback
Alianza Lima is navigating a tense period on and off the pitch. After being eliminated from the Copa Sudamericana, the Blanquiazul fell to Cienciano in Cusco, a result that left the spotlight squarely on defender Carlos Zambrano. In that match, Zambrano was sent off in the first half, compounding a run of disciplinary issues that have followed the team into the Clausura.
The incident against Cienciano came amid a broader context of scrutiny over Zambrano’s conduct this season. The center-back, who has been a regular starter for the Peruvian national team, has drawn criticism for a series of red cards that have disrupted Alianza Lima’s plans and forced the side to improvise defensively in crucial moments.
Zambrano breaks his silence: interview on Fútbol como Cancha
In an interview with the program Fútbol como Cancha on RPP, Zambrano publicly addressed the outcome of the match and the discipline he received. He offered an apology for leaving the team with ten players and pointed to the double burden created by playing in high-altitude conditions in Cusco. The defender emphasized accountability and the impact of his actions on the collective effort of the squad.
“Yes I spoke with Franco and Franquito Navarro, and I am going to receive a financial sanction, it’s fair,” Zambrano said. He also stressed that he understood the consequences and did not oppose the sanction, highlighting the responsibility that comes with wearing the Alianza Lima jersey.
He added, “I don’t want to get upset because I harmed the team in that last match which was in altitude, and that is a double effort.” The 36-year-old defender, who has been with the club since 2023, framed the moment as a learning experience and a reminder of the standards expected at this level.
The sanction and the fairness view
The remarks underscore Zambrano’s acceptance of the consequences that accompany red cards, particularly as they relate to a team that is hoping to stabilize after a challenging stretch. By acknowledging the sanction as fair, he signaled a willingness to maintain discipline moving forward, a stance that coaches and teammates alike often seek from veterans who carry leadership roles on and off the field.
The bigger picture: Zambrano’s disciplinary tally in 2025
With the latest sending off, Zambrano’s year-to-date disciplinary record has been a focal point for fans and media. He has already accumulated six expulsions in 2025 across different competitions, including a prior red card in the Copa Sudamericana when Alianza Lima faced Universidad de Chile in the away leg. That tally places him among the more scrutinized players in Peru’s top flight, highlighting the tension between his experience and the risk of suspensions that can derail a team’s season. Coaches have noted that while his leadership is valuable, on-field indiscretions must be controlled to preserve a competitive lineup.
Impact on Alianza Lima and the Clausura 2025
Alianza Lima must now navigate the consequences of Zambrano’s latest dismissal while trying to maintain momentum in the Clausura. The club’s performance in the league and cup competitions depends on maintaining defensive solidity and minimizing disciplinary risks. The backline’s cohesion, the patience of referees, and the ability to absorb pressure in tougher venues will be tested as Zambrano serves his sanction and the team retools for upcoming fixtures.
What comes next for Zambrano
Looking ahead, Zambrano’s focus will likely be on his fitness, form, and composure. At 36, his experience remains a valuable asset, but consistency will determine how effectively he can contribute to Alianza Lima’s campaign. Team doctors, coaches, and national-team observers will watch closely to ensure the veteran defender channels his leadership into improved performances and fewer avoidable incidents.
Conclusion: accountability and forward focus
The talk around Carlos Zambrano this season has centered on accountability, leadership, and the ongoing challenge of balancing ambition with discipline. As Alianza Lima seeks stability in a demanding Clausura 2025, Zambrano’s willingness to acknowledge his missteps and accept sanctions could help set a professional tone for teammates. What matters most is how the team responds in the coming fixtures and whether the veteran defender can translate his experience into consistency on the field.
