Alianza Lima Eyes Victory Against Deportes Iquique in Copa Libertadores

SANTIAGO, Chile — Alianza Lima aims to bounce back from a rocky start in the Liga de Primera as they prepare to face Deportes Iquique on March 4 in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores qualifying rounds. The match will take place at Estadio Tierra de Campeones at 7:00 p.m. local time (ARG/URU/CHI) and 5:00 p.m. in Peru.

Under the guidance of head coach Néstor Gorosito, Alianza Lima has been practicing intensively in anticipation of this critical encounter. Due to recent player absences, including Noriega, Jesús Castillo will step into his position in the midfield. To fill the gap left by Ceppelini, Gorosito has been testing Alan Cantero, although he may opt for Fernando Gaibor for greater control in midfield.

The expected lineup for Alianza Lima includes: Guillermo Viscarra; Guillermo Enrique, Carlos Zambrano, Renzo Garcés, Miguel Trauco; Pablo Lavandeira, Castillo, and either Gaibor or Cantero; with Kevin Quevedo, Hernán Barcos, and Eryc Castillo forming the attack.

On the opposing side, Deportes Iquique is entering the match looking to recover from their recent domestic loss to Universidad Católica. Coach Miguel Ramírez confirmed that he has no player injuries and hopes to leverage the strengths of Edson Puch and Stefan Pino from the start.

Deportes Iquique is likely to field: Leandro Requena; Diego Orellana, Luis Casanova, Carlos Rodríguez, Hans Salinas; Diego Fernández, César Fuentes, Enzo Hoyos; César González, Pino, and Puch.

Both teams are aiming to secure a favorable result to advance to the next stage of the tournament. Gorosito stated, “Our goal is to impose our game style. We understand the challenges Iquique will present, but we are prepared.” Hernán Barcos, recognized as Alianza Lima’s top scorer in the tournament, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of this match in their overall campaign.

In contrast, Deportes Iquique finds itself in a challenging position in the national league, with the team holding the last place without a single point. Puch acknowledged the importance of the Libertadores match, commenting, “It’s a chance to regain our rhythm. Every game counts, and we need to bring our best to overcome this hurdle.”

The match will be broadcasted exclusively on ESPN for South American audiences, with coverage available through various digital platforms including Disney Plus and Infobae Perú.