Costa Rican football league sees leadership shifts after Saprissa defeat

The Costa Rican Apertura 2026 tournament has seen a significant shift in the standings following Asociación Deportiva San Carlos's 2-1 victory over Deportivo Saprissa. The win by San Carlos, led by coach Walter Centeno, keeps them in fifth place while complicating the title race for the leaders.

Following the loss, Saprissa remains in a triple tie for first place with Cartaginés and Sporting, all sitting at 24 points, though Cartaginés holds the top spot due to goal difference. Saprissa coach Hernán Medford addressed the defeat and criticisms regarding his lineup rotations, promising to lead the team to a final and a championship.

In other league action, Liga Deportiva Alajuelense secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Pérez Zeledón with a 94th-minute goal by Anthony Hernández. This result moves Alajuelense within two points of the leaders as they prepare for the upcoming Clásico Nacional.