Real Estel suffered a bitter defeat during their visit to Guanacasteca in Costa Rica, despite maintaining first place in their group until the last day of the Copa Centroamericana 2024. The match, played on August 29, ended with a result that left the Nicaraguans with a bittersweet taste, since, although Cayeron was on the field, his stay throughout the tournament allowed them to advance to the next stage of the tournament.
The only goal of the match ended in the 81st minute, when Jason Vega was penalized with a penalty after a cometid foul by Real's goalkeeper Estelí. Johan Vanegas was the one to execute the maximum penalty, and his sure shot shot them to Guanacasteca los tres puntos, relegating Estelí to the second position of its group.
An unexpected result
The result of the match was a complicated challenge for Real Estel. Although they started well in the group stage, the defeat in Costa Rica meant that their path to glory in the Central American Cup would not be as simple as hoped. With this result, Saprissa crowned themselves as the group leader with 9 points, while Real Estel retired in second place with 7. On the other side, Managua FC and Municipal, along with Guanacasteca, finished with 4 points each, demonstrating the competitiveness of the group.
Despite this fall, Real Estelí can be satisfied with its overall performance in the tournament. Its ability to get positive results in the previous parts has allowed it to secure a place in the next round, which will be crucial for its aspirations in certain cases.
Looking towards the future
The next challenge for Real Estel will be to face the Eagle of El Salvador, where they will finish as leaders of sector C. This match will be played in a ida and breakaway format, with the matches scheduled for September 24 and 26, and the return stages will tend to take place on October 1 and 3, although these dates are yet to be confirmed. This match represents a key opportunity for Real Estel to prove its validity and continue to advance in competence.
El Águila, known for its solid example in the Salvadoran league, will present a significant result. However, the Nicaraguan staff has shown that it is capable of competing at a higher level, and the experience gained in the group stage will be an important factor to consider.
Final thoughts
The Copa Centroamericana 2024 was a tournament full of emotions and surprises, and Real Estelí showed firm commitment along its trajectory. Although the defeat in Guanacasteca was a hard blow, the team gained experience and motivation to face the next obstacles. The Real Estel affectionate can be sure that despite the setbacks, his team is ready to win glory in the next stage of the tournament.
With the help of their followers and the determination of their players, Real Estel will try to return to the triumphal flow and advance in the Copa Centroamericana. Next time will be crucial and the team is ready to face whoever comes.
