Cartaginés takes tournament lead as Alajuelense dismisses coach

Club Sport Cartaginés has taken the lead in the Apertura 2026 tournament following a 3-1 victory over Liga Deportiva Alajuelense at the Fello Meza stadium. The win moves Cartaginés to 18 points, placing them at the top of the standings due to a superior goal difference, overtaking Deportivo Saprissa.

In the wake of the defeat, Alajuelense has dismissed Spanish head coach Ismael Rescalvo. The club also relieved assistant coach and physical preparation specialist Robert Tejero of his duties. The decision follows a period of poor form, with the team failing to win any of its last four matches and currently sitting in sixth place.

Meanwhile, Deportivo Saprissa lost its position at the top of the table after a 2-4 defeat against Sporting FC. Saprissa had opted for squad rotation to prioritize the Copa Centroamericana, a move that resulted in the loss of the leadership spot.