
São Paulo secured a dramatic 2-0 victory over Alianza Lima at the Morumbi Stadium in the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16 second leg, advancing to the quarterfinals with an aggregate score of 2-1. The first half was tense, with both teams cautiously creating scoring opportunities. The deadlock was broken in the 58th minute when São Paulo’s Arboleda scored a well-placed header from a corner kick. Alianza Lima’s dynamic attacking trio of Cecilio Waterman, Sebastián Rodríguez, and Carlos Ascues created several chances, but São Paulo’s veteran defense proved resilient. The match was sealed in the 83rd minute when Luciano converted a penalty awarded after a handball decision against Alianza Lima’s defender, sparking protests from the Alianza Lima bench and fans. Alianza Lima’s goalkeeper, Ángelo Campos, made crucial saves, but São Paulo’s superior firepower and home advantage were decisive. The result ends Alianza Lima’s Copa Sudamericana campaign, despite their impressive group stage performance and a hard-fought first-leg draw. For São Paulo, the victory is a significant step toward the Sudamericana title, and they will now await the quarterfinals draw. The match showcased Peruvian football’s growing competitiveness, with Alianza Lima challenging a top South American club. A strong contingent of Alianza Lima fans traveled to São Paulo, providing vocal support throughout the match. While Alianza Lima shifts focus to the Peruvian Primera División, São Paulo will look to build on this momentum in the Copa Sudamericana knockout stages.