Cienciano advances to Copa Sudamericana quarter-finals

Cienciano has advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana after defeating Botafogo with a 6-2 aggregate score. Although the Peruvian side lost 1-0 in the second leg in Rio de Janeiro, their dominant 6-1 victory in the first leg in Cusco secured their progression. This marks the first time the club has reached the quarter-finals in 23 years.

The match was marked by tension, including a confrontation following the final whistle. Cienciano coach Horacio Melgarejo defended his team's conduct, alleging that Botafogo members initiated the incident and criticized the lack of security. Player Santiago Arias also commented on the victory, noting that economic differences do not dictate results on the pitch.

Cienciano is scheduled to face Uruguay's Montevideo City Torque in the next round, with the first leg set for September 9, 2026.