Cienciano defeats Montevideo City Torque 2-0 in Copa Sudamericana

Cienciano secured a 2-0 victory against Montevideo City Torque in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana 2026 quarter-finals. Played at the Inca Garcilaso de la Vega stadium in Cusco, Peru, the match was heavily influenced by the high altitude of approximately 3,400 meters.

Both goals were scored in the first half. Cristian Souza opened the scoring in the 28th minute following a cross from Neri Bandiera. Maximiliano Amondarain doubled the lead in the 42nd minute with a long-range strike from over 40 meters out. While Cienciano dominated possession and shots, the second half saw more balanced play as the Uruguayan side attempted to respond.

The advantage gives the Peruvian side a significant cushion heading into the second leg, which is scheduled for September 17 at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Uruguay. However, Cienciano faces potential challenges as player Alejandro Hohberg left the pitch with a suspected injury that may impact his availability for the return match.