Independiente del Valle endured a night of high drama in Riobamba but secured their spot in the 2025 Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals after defeating a combative Mushuc Runa 4-2 in a penalty shootout. The Ecuadorian side, who had won 1-0 in the first leg, lost 2-1 in the return match, leaving the aggregate score at 2-2 and forcing a shootout from the spot. Their next opponent will be Colombian side Once Caldas.

A dramatic match until the end

The team coached by Spaniard Javier Rabanal seemed to have the tie under control, but “El Ponchito” complicated things. In the 45th minute, Jhonnier Chalá opened the scoring with a precise header to level the aggregate. In the second half, Cristian Penilla capitalized on a quick throw-in from Ángel Gracia and slotted a low strike across goal to put Mushuc Runa ahead in the series in the 71st minute.

When it looked like the Riobamba side was on the verge of a historic qualification, an unexpected hero emerged. In the very last play of the match, Michael Hoyos rose to meet a cross with a clutch header, tying the series 2-2 and sending the game to penalties.

Composure from the spot

In the shootout, Independiente del Valle’s experience made the difference. Júnior Sornoza, Claudio Spinelli, Patrik Mercado, and Richard Schunke all converted their kicks with confidence. For the hosts, only Penilla and Bagner Delgado found the net, while Stiven Tapiero’s shot was saved by Guido Villar and Luis Arce struck the post.

The 4-2 win on penalties sealed qualification for the “Rayados del Valle,” once again proving their resilience in international competitions. The Ecuadorian club continues to cement its reputation as one of the continent’s most competitive sides in recent years.

What’s next: showdown with Once Caldas

With their ticket punched, Independiente del Valle now look ahead to the quarterfinals, where they will face Once Caldas, a historic Colombian club. The clash promises to be high voltage, pitting the Ecuadorians’ tactical discipline against the grit of the Manizales outfit.

As the Sudamericana enters its decisive stage, Rabanal’s team emerges as one of the contenders to fight for the trophy, though they will have to keep overcoming hurdles like the dramatic series against Mushuc Runa, which has been one of the most thrilling of this edition.