Alajuelense defeats Saprissa and is crowned champion in Costa Rica
La Liga imposes its hierarchy in the national classic, defeats Saprissa in the final and reaffirms its dominance in Costa Rican football
Alajuelense defeated Saprissa 3-1 this Saturday in the final of the 2025 Apertura Tournament, a victory that crowned them champions of Costa Rican football and secured their 31st title, in a historic night for the fans Alajuelense.
With a solid collective performance, Alajuelense imposed their style in the national derby and sealed a historic victory at the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, the setting for a vibrant and high-intensity final.
Alajuelense, managed by Oscar Ramirez, opened the scoring in the 26th minute after a defensive lapse that Mexican striker Ronaldo Cisneros capitalized on with a precise header to make it 1-0.
A few minutes later, midfielder Alejandro Bran had the opportunity to increase the lead, but his shot went over the crossbar of Saprissa goalkeeper Esteban Alvarado.
Alajuelense dominance in midfield
Alajuelense were dominant, especially in controlling the midfield, constantly pressuring Saprissa and dictating the pace of the game for large stretches of the first half.
Intensity and tactical discipline allowed Liga Deportiva Alajuelense to create more danger in the opposing penalty area.
Saprissa reacts and equalizes before halftime
However, despite Alajuelense's dominance, Saprissa, coached by Vladimir Quesada, didn't give up and gradually began to grow into the game.
Panamanian midfielder Fidel Escobar led several attacking efforts and forced Alajuelense goalkeeper Byron Mora into a spectacular save with a powerful shot.
Their persistence finally paid off at the end of the first half. At 45+5', Kenay Myrie scored a spectacular bicycle kick, impossible for the goalkeeper to stop, tying the score at 1-1.
The second half belonged to La Liga
In the second half, Alajuelense imposed their power and aggression in offensive transitions, tipping the scales in their favor once again.
The key moment of the game came in the 73rd minute,When, after a powerful shot by Bran, the ball fell loose in the six-yard box and midfielder Fernando Pinar made no mistake, putting Alajuelense ahead 2-1 and unleashing euphoria at the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium. A stunning final goal and the title secured. Saprissa tried to respond, but the Alajuelense defense remained solid and well-positioned in the decisive minutes. In the 83rd minute, Antony Hernandez sealed the 3-1 victory with a long-range screamer that left goalkeeper Alvarado with no chance, confirming Alajuelense's championship and another golden chapter in their history in Costa Rican football.

