Real Estelí defeats Saprissa to lead Group D, qualify to quarterfinals

ESTELÍ, Nicaragua – Real Estelí FC earned a 2-1 win against Deportivo Saprissa in the 2024 Central American Cup on Tuesday at the Estadio Independencia in Estelí, Nicaragua.

Byron Bonilla gave the home side the lead in the 7’ through a historic goal in the Central American Cup, scoring the 250th all-time goal in the tournament with a right-footed strike from a free kick.

Bonilla secured his brace in the 45’+2 with a left-footed strike inside the box to extend Estelí’s lead before the half. 

Ariel Rodríguez struck for the visitors in the 90’+6 on a penalty kick opportunity to cut the deficit before full time. 

With the victory, Real Estelí climbs to the top of Group A with seven points after three matches. The 2023 runners-up also became the first club in the 2024 edition to seal their place in the quarterfinals.

The Nicaraguan club’s next challenge will be away to AD Guanacasteca on August 29 in Liberia, Costa Rica. Deportivo Saprissa's next encounter will be against CSD Municipal on August 29 at the Estadio Ricardo Saprissa in San José, Costa Rica.