Tue Mar 04 22:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Alianza Lima Faces Iquique in Crucial Libertadores Clash
**Lima, Peru** – Alianza Lima, fresh off a stunning victory over Boca Juniors, faces another tough test in the Copa Libertadores 2025. The Peruvian giants travel to Chile to face Deportes Iquique in the first leg of the Phase 3 tie on Tuesday, March 4th.
Former Alianza Lima player Rinaldo Cruzado, in an interview with Radio Ovación, praised the impact of coach Néstor Gorosito, highlighting the increased confidence within the squad. Cruzado, a four-time national champion with Alianza, stated that Gorosito has instilled a sense of security in the players, particularly those who have received increased playing time recently.
This match presents a significant challenge for Alianza, who will be without key players Erick Noriega, Pablo Ceppelini, and Paolo Guerrero. However, Cruzado expressed confidence in the team’s ability to overcome these absences, citing the strong performances of players who have stepped up in recent matches. He emphasized the team’s improved commitment and the positive impact of giving opportunities to players who haven’t consistently featured in the starting lineup.
Cruzado also highlighted the form of several players, notably Miguel Trauco, whose own goal against Boca Juniors notwithstanding, is finding his rhythm. Other players like Kevin Quevedo, Pablo Lavandeira, and Guillermo Enrique are also performing well, contributing to the team’s overall strength.
Despite the absence of key players and the difficult away match, Cruzado believes Alianza Lima has the potential to secure a positive result. The second leg will be played at Alianza’s home stadium, Matute, on March 11th. While acknowledging the challenge, Cruzado believes Alianza’s recent successes and newfound confidence give them a strong chance of reaching the group stage of the Copa Libertadores 2025. The team, he stresses, must believe in their abilities but not underestimate their opponents.
First Piper 