ABB vs CD IN San Juan FC Match Recap - Dec 23, 2025

ABB Triumphs in Penalty Shootout, Defying Recent Form to Claim Final Glory

ABB's resilience shone through as they overcame CD IN San Juan FC in a dramatic penalty shootout, securing a 5-3 victory after a tense 120 minutes that ended 2-0 in favor of ABB. This result marks a significant turnaround for a team that had struggled throughout the season, finishing 15th in the league with only 26 points. The triumph not only salvages their campaign but also injects a much-needed dose of confidence into a squad that had been on the brink of despair.

Cervantes emerged as a pivotal figure for ABB, scoring the only goal in regulation time and showcasing his ability to deliver when it mattered most. His performance stands in stark contrast to his recent form, where he had been overshadowed by teammates like Loza and Bejarano, who had previously carried the scoring burden. This resurgence could signal a turning point for Cervantes, who now has the opportunity to build on this momentum as ABB looks to regroup after a tumultuous season.

CD IN San Juan FC's recent dominance over ABB was evident leading into this final, having bested them just days prior with a 3-1 victory. Their confidence was palpable, yet the pressure of the final proved to be a different beast. The early red cards issued to Cabrera and Guzman severely hampered their tactical approach, forcing them to adapt quickly and ultimately leading to their downfall in the shootout. The inability to maintain composure under pressure highlights the psychological challenges that can accompany high-stakes matches.

ABB's recent form had been dismal, with three consecutive losses before this final. Their defensive frailties were laid bare in those matches, conceding six goals against Blooming and two against Nacional Potosí. Yet, in this decisive moment, they found a way to rally. The penalty shootout showcased their mental fortitude, with players like Loza, Bejarano, and Cervantes stepping up when it counted. This newfound resilience could be the catalyst for a revival as they look to build on this victory.

The contrasting narratives of both teams were evident throughout the match. CD IN San Juan FC had entered the final with an impressive run, scoring nine goals in their last three matches across competitions. However, their inability to convert that attacking prowess into goals during the final proved costly. The pressure of expectation weighed heavily on them, and their failure to capitalize on opportunities will haunt them as they reflect on what could have been.

The penalty shootout itself was a microcosm of the match's tension. ABB converted five out of six penalties, demonstrating both skill and composure under pressure. In contrast, CD IN San Juan FC faltered at crucial moments, with Hurtado and El Hage missing their attempts. This disparity in execution not only sealed the match but also underscored the importance of mental strength in high-pressure situations.

Looking ahead, ABB's victory provides a glimmer of hope for a team that has faced adversity all season long. They must capitalize on this momentum as they navigate the challenges ahead. For CD IN San Juan FC, this defeat serves as a harsh reminder of the fine margins that define success and failure in football. They will need to regroup and reassess if they hope to reclaim their earlier form and avoid similar pitfalls in future matches.

The implications of this match extend beyond just the trophy; it represents a potential turning point for ABB as they seek redemption after a season filled with disappointment. With key players like Cervantes finding their rhythm again, they may just have the spark needed to ignite a resurgence in their campaign. Meanwhile, CD IN San Juan FC must confront the reality of missed opportunities and learn from this experience if they wish to emerge stronger in future competitions.