Macara vs Deportivo Cuenca Match Recap - Dec 13, 2025

Macara's Defensive Misstep Costs Them as Deportivo Cuenca Snatches Victory

Deportivo Cuenca capitalized on a critical error from José Luis Marrufo, whose own goal in the 40th minute sealed a narrow 1-0 victory over Macara. This match marked a significant turnaround for Cuenca, who had struggled to find the net in recent outings. The win not only boosts their confidence but also reinforces their position in the league standings.

Deportivo Cuenca's recent form has been a mixed bag, with their last five matches yielding just one win. The draw against Delfin SC highlighted their inability to convert possession into goals, as they dominated that match with 62% possession and 20 total shots but failed to score. This inconsistency had raised questions about their attacking prowess, but today's result suggests they may have found a way to break through their scoring drought.

Luis Estupiñan has been a standout performer for Cuenca, contributing significantly to their midfield play. His ability to control the game and create chances was evident, as Cuenca outpassed Macara with 195 total passes compared to Macara's 128. This dominance in midfield allowed Cuenca to dictate the tempo, even if they struggled to convert that control into clear-cut chances.

Macara entered this match riding high on a three-game winning streak, showcasing a newfound resilience. Their recent victories included a solid 2-0 win against Emelec, where they demonstrated effective counterattacking football. However, today's performance was a stark contrast; despite having a few shots on target, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. The defensive lapse from Marrufo was particularly costly, as it shifted momentum firmly in Cuenca's favor.

The statistics reveal a telling story of the match. Macara managed only one shot on goal compared to Cuenca's four, indicating a lack of offensive threat. Their inability to penetrate Cuenca's defense was compounded by a drop in pass accuracy to 80%, which is below their usual standards. This inefficiency in possession ultimately hampered their ability to create meaningful scoring opportunities.

Cuenca's defensive unit, led by Brian Bustos, held firm under pressure. Bustos did not face many direct threats but made crucial saves when called upon, maintaining a clean sheet that will bolster his confidence moving forward. The defensive organization displayed by Cuenca was a stark contrast to Macara's struggles, particularly in the wake of their recent successes.

The head-to-head history between these two teams has been intriguing, with Macara previously defeating Cuenca 2-0 just weeks prior. That victory seemed to set the stage for today's encounter, where Cuenca sought redemption. The psychological edge gained from that earlier defeat may have fueled Cuenca's determination to assert themselves and reclaim dominance.

Maximiliano Juambeltz, who has been pivotal for Macara this season, found himself isolated and unable to influence the game effectively. His recent form had suggested he could be a game-changer, but today he was stifled by Cuenca's disciplined defensive setup. This lack of support from his teammates further emphasized Macara's struggles in transitioning from defense to attack.

The implications of this match extend beyond mere points; it serves as a reminder of the volatility within Liga Pro. Macara now sits at 10th place with 38 points, teetering on the edge of mediocrity after what seemed like a resurgence. Conversely, Deportivo Cuenca climbs to 7th place with 46 points, solidifying their playoff aspirations and potentially setting the stage for a deeper run in the competition.

Looking ahead, both teams face critical matches that will shape their respective seasons. Macara will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next fixture against Aucas, while Cuenca will look to build on this momentum against Emelec. The stakes are high for both sides; for Macara, it's about salvaging their season, while for Cuenca, it's about maintaining their upward trajectory.

This match encapsulated the unpredictable nature of football; one moment can shift the entire narrative. For Deportivo Cuenca, today's victory is not just about three points but also about regaining confidence and asserting themselves as contenders in Liga Pro. For Macara, it's a wake-up call that highlights the need for consistency and focus as they navigate the challenges ahead.