Deportivo Cuenca vs Aucas Match Recap - Oct 26, 2025

In a match that lived up to its high stakes, Aucas overcame Deportivo Cuenca 2-1 on a rain-soaked pitch at Alejandro Serrano Aguilar, securing a vital win in their bid for a Copa Sudamericana berth. The disappointment for Cuenca is palpable, as it marks a continuation of their struggles, casting doubts on their aspirations for continental competition as the Liga Pro season winds down.

The game kicked off with urgency, and it was Bruno Miranda who quickly ignited the action for Aucas, scoring in the fifth minute to give his side an early lead. As Aucas players celebrated, the tension grew among Cuenca's players and their supporters, who had hoped for a more spirited response following their recent victory over El Nacional. Instead, Cuenca's early vulnerability was exposed, allowing Aucas to seize control.

However, Cuenca's tenacity shone through after the intermission. In the 60th minute, Jorge Ordóñez found the net, leveling the score and injecting hope into the home crowd. The goal unfolded like a brief respite from a storm, as Cuenca was suddenly revitalized, charging forward with newfound purpose. The prospect of snatching three crucial points seemed tangible, a chance to silence their critics after a disheartening run of form.

But Aucas, facing their own mounting pressure, responded with characteristic grit. As the clock ticked down towards the final whistle, Jhon Ontaneda struck decisively in the 89th minute, converting a golden opportunity to restore Aucas's advantage just when it appeared they might settle for a draw. The goal was a crushing blow to Cuenca, who had fought back valiantly just moments before.

The final scoreline sends Aucas to 41 points, solidifying their ninth position while leaving Cuenca in seventh with 46 points. Aucas, now with a crucial win in hand, keeps their hopes for continental play alive, albeit precariously. For Cuenca, however, this loss amplifies concerns about their recent dip in form-a single win in their last five matches-and raises questions about their ability to maintain momentum as the season reaches its climax.

Reflecting on my earlier predictions, it seems my confidence in Cuenca's resurgence was misplaced. I envisioned a tight contest that could tilt either way, but I certainly didn't expect Aucas to make such a decisive statement. The match ultimately crystallizes the razor-thin margins that define Liga Pro-one moment of brilliance can shift not just a game, but the trajectory of a season.

As both teams look ahead, Cuenca must regroup quickly ahead of their next challenge, seeking to regain the confidence that has faltered in recent weeks. Aucas, emboldened by this victory, will aspire to capitalize on the momentum, with crucial matches looming on the horizon. The race for the Sudamericana spots remains tight and intense, promising more thrilling encounters as the season's end approaches.