Alianza Lima secured a historic qualification to the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16 on Wednesday after a 1-1 draw against Gremio in Porto Alegre. Combined with their 2-0 victory in Lima, the result was enough for the Peruvian side to advance, where they will now face Universidad Católica of Ecuador in the next stage.

The match began with the expected pressure from the Brazilian side, who were desperate to overturn the first-leg deficit. Backed by their home crowd, Gremio pushed forward from the start but ran into a well-organized defense and a brilliant performance from goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra, who stopped efforts from Alysson and Danish striker Martin Braithwaite.

Meanwhile, the team coached by Néstor Gorosito remained calm and looked for counterattack opportunities. The clearest chance of the first half came from a shot by Paolo Guerrero, following a pass from Ecuadorian Erick Castillo, but Volpi made an excellent save.

In the second half, the home side's pressure finally paid off. After a corner taken by Marlon, defender Gustavo Martins scored with a powerful header in the 55th minute, igniting hope among the Brazilian fans.

However, just when it seemed the match might go to penalties, Argentine striker Hernán Barcos silenced the crowd. In the sixth and final minute of added time, following a precise assist from Fernando Gaibor, Barcos calmly slotted in the equalizer, ending Gremio’s chances.

The veteran forward, well known in Brazilian football, delivered the final blow and sealed Alianza Lima’s advancement. The Peruvian side not only defended resolutely but also struck at the perfect moment. Now, they turn their focus to their upcoming challenge against Universidad Católica, hoping to continue making history in this year’s Copa Sudamericana.