By Victor Araiza
Atlético de San Luis is victorious for the first time in Leagues Cup, defeating Real Salt Lake 4-1 on penalties after a 2-2 draw on Saturday at America First Field in Sandy, Utah.
Braian Ojeda placed the MLS side in front at the nine-minute mark after connecting with a header at the back post on a corner kick opportunity.
João Pedro equalized in the 24th minute, striking a precise header off a cross from Javier Suárez.
Just over ten minutes after coming on as a substitute, Diego Luna had a chance from the penalty spot in the 67th but was denied by San Luis goalkeeper Andrés Sánchez.
Miguel García, one of the second half reinforcements for San Luis, took the lead for the Mexican side in the 82nd minute. Initially denied by Rafael Cabral, García connected a header from close range on the second chance.
Ojeda put the Claret-and-Cobalt back on level terms in the 88th minute with a right-footed hit from outside the box, collecting his brace in the process.
After Brayan Vera missed RSL’s opening attempt, Andrés Sánchez made a stop on Justen Glad in the second round of spot kicks.
João Pedro, Benjamín Galdames, Miguel García and Aldo Cruz all converted for the Potosinos to earn two points and stay alive in the race for the Knockout Round.
PLAYERS OF THE MATCH:
- Real Salt Lake:
- Braian Ojeda scored both RSL goals, including the match-tying goal to force penalties
- Atlético de San Luis:
- Andrés Sánchez took Man of the Match honors after saving a penalty in regulation and another in the shootout
GAME NOTES:
- RSL went to PKs for a second consecutive Leagues Cup encounter.
- Braian Ojeda struck his first brace with the Utah club
- Atlético de San Luis collected its first Leagues Cup victory on PKs
- João Pedro scored his third goal in four appearances for the Mexican club
- Miguel García struck his first goal with Atlético San Luis
CARDS/INJURY REPORT:
Yellow cards:
- Real Salt Lake: None
- Atlético de San Luis: Rodrigo Dourado, Miguel García
LOOKING AHEAD:
- Real Salt Lake will conclude Phase One on Wednesday against Club Queretaro, seeking to build on its three points in hopes of making the Knockout Round
- Atlético de San Luis will also conclude its Phase One participation on Wednesday against Minnesota United FC, aiming for its first outright victory and its chances of advancing to the next round.
