Alajuelense, Plaza Amador and Real Estelí secure wins in Copa Centroamericana group stage

In the 2026 Copa Centroamericana group stage, Liga Deportiva Alajuelense defeated Diriangén FC 3-1 in Managua, taking the lead in Group A. Alajuelense’s midfielder Daniel Chacón left the match with a knee injury, prompting a precautionary substitution, though the club’s coach Ismael Rescalvo said the injury appeared minor.

Panama’s Plaza Amador earned a 2-1 victory over El Salvador’s Luis Ángel Firpo in the Group A match, with goals from Jimar Sánchez and Julio Rodríguez securing the win and keeping the tricampeón in contention for qualification.

Nicaragua’s Real Estelí FC beat Antigua GFC 2-0 in Guatemala, with captain Juan Barrera scoring the opening goal and Edgar Castillo adding a second, putting the club in a strong position in Group B.

Alajuelense also announced that midfielder Luis Díaz, who missed the start of the season due to a ligament injury, is expected to return within weeks, bolstering the squad for upcoming fixtures. The results set up further decisive matches as teams vie for advancement in the regional tournament.