Copa Ecuador Semifinal Stalemate: U. Católica and Cuenca Juniors Battle to Tense First-Leg Draw

Universidad Católica and Cuenca Juniors played to a tense 0-0 draw in the Copa Ecuador semifinal first leg. The match took place at Quito’s Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa on Wednesday night. The result leaves everything to play for in the decisive second leg scheduled for December.

This stalemate sets up a dramatic conclusion to the Copa Ecuador semifinal. The finalist will be determined by the aggregate score over both matches.

U. Católica Controls Play But Lacks Cutting Edge

The home side dominated the match from the start. According to live statistics, U. Católica finished with a commanding 71 percent of possession. Despite this control, they failed to register a single shot on target during the entire 90 minutes.

Their best chance came early. A goal was disallowed in the 16th minute after a VAR review confirmed an offside position. This moment summed up a frustrating night for Diego Martínez’s team.

The packed stadium in Quito provided constant vocal support. The fans urged their team forward, but the final pass or shot consistently eluded the home players.

Cuenca Juniors Executes Defensive Masterclass

Cuenca Juniors arrived with a clear and effective game plan. The underdogs from the Azuay region focused on defensive organization and discipline. They executed this strategy perfectly to secure a valuable away draw.

The team, known as the Gallos, managed four shots with one on target. Their tactical approach neutralized U. Católica’s attacking threats throughout the contest. Playing at altitude in Quito is always a challenge, which makes their result more impressive.

This performance continues their remarkable Copa Ecuador journey. They have defeated higher-seeded opponents to reach this stage, defying expectations at every turn.

Everything Hinges on December’s Second Leg

The return match on December 3rd now becomes a straight knockout. The aggregate score over the two legs will decide which team advances to the Copa Ecuador final. A score draw in the second leg would send Cuenca Juniors through on the away goals rule.

U. Católica will be disappointed not to have secured a home advantage. They must now score in Cuenca to keep their championship hopes alive. The pressure shifts slightly towards the visitors, who will have passionate home support.

Both managers have a month to analyze this first leg and adjust tactics. The championship final awaits the winner, along with a coveted spot in an international competition.

The Copa Ecuador semifinal remains perfectly poised after this goalless first leg. All the drama and tension will now build towards the decisive return match in December, where one team’s dream will end and the other’s path to the final will be secured.

Info at your fingertips

What is the format of the Copa Ecuador semifinal?

The semifinal is played over two legs, home and away. The team with the higher aggregate score after both matches advances to the final. Away goals are used as a tiebreaker if the aggregate score is level.

When and where is the second leg?

The second leg between Cuenca Juniors and U. Católica is scheduled for December 3, 2025. The match will be played at Cuenca Juniors’ home stadium.

Who were the favorites coming into this semifinal?

U. Católica, from Quito, was considered the favorite due to their top-flight status and home advantage for the first leg. Cuenca Juniors’ run to the semifinal was seen as a significant surprise.

What does the winner of this semifinal get?

The winner advances to the Copa Ecuador championship final. The champion earns a prestigious domestic trophy and qualification for an international South American club competition.