The quarterfinal clash of the Copa Sudamericana between Universidad de Chile and Alianza Lima sparked into life almost immediately. After just five minutes, the home side grabbed the lead thanks to a composed finish from Lucas Assadi, igniting celebrations at the Estadio Francisco Sánchez Rumoroso.

How did the play unfold?

The move began with a quick combination down the left flank. Matías Sepúlveda played Assadi through, and the young attacker cut inside the box before unleashing a low, right-footed strike across goal. The shot was placed perfectly into the bottom-right corner, leaving the visiting goalkeeper with no chance as the score moved to 1-0 for “La U.”

What impact did the goal have?

The early strike forced Alianza Lima to adjust their approach almost instantly. Trailing from the fifth minute, Néstor Gorosito’s side pushed their lines higher in search of an equalizer, while the hosts grew in confidence and settled into the game with momentum on their side.

Assadi, the unexpected hero

In a match that was supposed to be headlined by experienced figures like Charles Aránguiz and Paolo Guerrero, it was the young Lucas Assadi who took the spotlight. His opener lit up the stands and boosted the dreams of Universidad de Chile fans, who are eager to see their club return to the semifinals of the continental competition.