Antigua GFC vs Xelajú Match Recap - Dec 12, 2025

Antigua GFC Dominates Xelajú, Securing Quarter-Final Victory with Late Goals

Antigua GFC's resurgence continues as they decisively defeated Xelajú 2-0, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical discipline. After a disappointing loss to Xelajú just days prior, Antigua flipped the script, demonstrating their ability to bounce back under pressure. The victory not only propels them forward in the quarter-finals but also reinforces their status as a formidable contender in Liga Nacional.

Castaneda emerged as a key figure for Antigua, scoring the opening goal in the 80th minute. His performance reflects a broader trend of players stepping up when it matters most; this match marked his return to form after a quiet spell. With this goal, he joins the ranks of consistent contributors for Antigua, who have relied on a collective effort to maintain their position near the top of the standings.

Xelajú's recent form has been a rollercoaster ride, and this match epitomized their struggles. Despite a solid showing in their previous encounter against Antigua, they failed to capitalize on opportunities today. The absence of a decisive offensive presence was palpable, particularly from Lopez, who had been instrumental in their earlier victory. His inability to influence the game today highlights the inconsistency that has plagued Xelajú throughout the season.

Antigua's tactical setup proved effective once again, with their 4-4-2 formation allowing them to dominate possession and create scoring chances. Averaging over 56% possession in recent matches, they effectively controlled the tempo and frustrated Xelajú's attempts to counterattack. This strategic advantage was evident as Antigua consistently pressured Xelajú's defense, leading to critical mistakes and ultimately, goals.

The late red card issued to Calderon of Xelajú further compounded their woes. Playing with ten men in the closing stages not only diminished their chances of mounting a comeback but also underscored their defensive vulnerabilities. This incident reflects a troubling trend for Xelajú, who have struggled with discipline throughout the season, averaging nearly three yellow cards per match compared to Antigua's one.

Antigua's recent performances have been characterized by resilience and adaptability. Following a mixed bag of results leading up to this match, including a win against Malacateco and losses to Municipal, they demonstrated an ability to learn from setbacks. The victory today serves as a testament to their mental fortitude and tactical acumen, positioning them well for future challenges in the playoffs.

Xelajú's path forward appears more complicated after this defeat. With only eight wins in their last 22 matches, they must address their inconsistency if they hope to advance further in the tournament. The reliance on counter-attacking football has left them exposed defensively, and today's match highlighted the need for a more balanced approach moving forward.

The contrasting trajectories of these two teams are stark. Antigua GFC is riding high on momentum, while Xelajú faces an uphill battle to regain form. The psychological edge gained from this victory could be pivotal for Antigua as they look to build on this success in upcoming fixtures.

Antigua's ability to convert chances into goals has been a defining feature of their recent success. With players like Fernandez and Macareno contributing significantly in previous matches, today's performance reinforces the notion that they are not reliant on any single player but rather a cohesive unit capable of stepping up collectively.

In summary, Antigua GFC's 2-0 victory over Xelajú not only advances them in the quarter-finals but also serves as a statement of intent. Their blend of tactical discipline, attacking fluidity, and mental resilience positions them as serious contenders in Liga Nacional. Meanwhile, Xelajú must regroup and reassess their strategy if they hope to turn their fortunes around in the remaining fixtures.