In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Alianza Lima pulled off a gritty 2-1 win over Atlético Grau at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva on Wednesday night. The game, part of the Liga 1 Clausura's 12th round, saw the home side trailing early before mounting a swift counterattack. Indeed, it was a tale of resilience for Alianza, who have been under pressure to solidify their position in the standings.
Atlético Grau struck first, capitalizing on a defensive lapse just minutes into the second half. Their goal, a sharp finish that caught Alianza's keeper off guard, put the visitors ahead and seemed to tilt the momentum. But Alianza Lima, known for their never-say-die spirit at home, responded almost immediately. Alan Cantero leveled the score in the 78th minute with a clinical strike from the edge of the box, silencing the Grau celebrations and igniting the crowd. Not even three minutes later, Josué Estrada sealed the deal, nodding in a corner to give Alianza the lead they wouldn't relinquish.
The victory boosts Alianza to 18 points in the Clausura, keeping them in the hunt for a strong finish. Grau, meanwhile, drops to a frustrating draw in their recent form, now sitting mid-table with little margin for error. Estrada's header was particularly telling— a moment of brilliance amid what was otherwise a scrappy affair marked by fouls and missed chances. Moreover, Alianza's bench proved decisive, with substitutions injecting fresh energy when it mattered most. However, questions linger about their backline; that early concession exposed vulnerabilities that could cost them dearly later.
Both teams showed flashes of quality, yet the game underscored the Liga 1's unpredictability this season. Alianza's quick turnaround from deficit to triumph highlights their home advantage, but Grau's inability to hold the lead raises doubts about their away form. As the Clausura heats up, one wonders how these narrow results will shape the title race ahead.