Alianza Lima Eliminated From The Libertadores After Falling Short Against 2 de Mayo

The continental run is over for Alianza Lima. The Peruvian club could not overturn the series against 2 de Mayo and was eliminated from the Copa Libertadores after a draw at home was not enough.

The international campaign for Alianza Lima came to an end after the Peruvian side failed to overturn its series against Paraguay’s 2 de Mayo. A 1–1 draw in Lima sealed the elimination, as the visitors protected their aggregate edge from the first leg and secured progression at the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium.

The result sends 2 de Mayo into the next round in its first appearance in the continental tournament, showing discipline, efficiency, and composure under pressure. For the home side, it was a night defined by missed chances and growing urgency as time ran out.

Missed Penalty And Momentum Shift

From the opening minutes, Alianza Lima tried to control possession and tempo. While they handled more of the ball for stretches of the first half, clear scoring chances were shared by both teams. The key early turning point came when referee Flavio de Souza awarded a penalty after a handball inside the box.

The moment could have changed the series, but Eryc Castillo failed to convert, with goalkeeper Ángel Martínez making the save. The stop proved emotionally decisive, as a goal there would have reshaped the aggregate picture.

The squad led by Pablo Guede felt the blow and went into halftime knowing a major opportunity had slipped away.

Goals, Response, And The Decisive Equalizer

Early in the second half, Luis Advíncula broke the deadlock with a powerful finish that reignited home hopes. The goal pushed Alianza Lima forward, but 2 de Mayo answered quickly. Soon after, another penalty — again called by Flavio de Souza — shifted control back toward the visitors.

Wilson Brahian Ayala converted from the spot to level the match and restore the aggregate advantage for the Paraguayan side, who had won the first leg. With the score tied on the night but unfavorable overall, the pressure fully returned to the Peruvian club.

In the closing minutes, Ángel Martínez delivered two more key saves to deny a late winner and secure qualification.

What Comes Next For Both Clubs

With the series decided, 2 de Mayo advances to the next Copa Libertadores phase, where it will face Sporting Cristal in another regional matchup. The Paraguayan club celebrated a milestone result in its continental debut.

For Alianza Lima, the early exit shifts focus back to domestic competition, including the title race battle with rivals Universitario. Their Libertadores journey ends sooner than expected, leaving tough lessons behind.