The fallout from Alianza Lima’s elimination from the 2026 Copa Libertadores continues, with captain Paolo Guerrero at the center of a growing controversy. Following a 1-1 draw against 2 de Mayo of Paraguay, which sealed Alianza Lima’s fate, Guerrero revealed he declined to take a crucial penalty kick, citing a lack of confidence. The decision, and the subsequent missed opportunity when Eryc Castillo stepped up and failed to convert, has sparked intense debate in Peruvian football.
The match, played on , at the Estadio Alejandro Villanueva, ended in a 1-1 draw, mirroring the result of the first leg. This meant 2 de Mayo advanced on away goals, leaving Alianza Lima supporters and the club’s leadership reeling. The penalty, awarded during the match, presented a golden opportunity to change the outcome, but Guerrero’s decision to pass on the responsibility has been widely questioned.
“Nothing, I didn’t feel confident,” Guerrero explained in the mixed zone after the game, as reported by multiple Peruvian outlets including La República and Infobae. “I take responsibility, the fault is mine for not taking the penalty.” He also alluded to feeling fatigued, but emphasized his acceptance of accountability.
The decision hasn’t been received well by all. Reimond Manco, a former Peruvian international, reportedly “exploded” against Guerrero, according to El Comercio Perú, criticizing Guerrero for shirking his duty as captain and experienced player.
The controversy extends beyond the penalty itself. Guerrero’s response to questions from the press following the match was also notable. Infobae reported that Guerrero responded sarcastically to journalists, seemingly deflecting blame and questioning their football expertise. This has further fueled the criticism, with some observers questioning his leadership qualities.
Franco Navarro, a member of Alianza Lima’s board, has publicly backed both coach Pablo Guede and the players, including Guerrero, despite the elimination and the surrounding controversy. According to NewsDirectory3.com, Navarro emphasized the need to support the team during a difficult period. However, this support hasn’t quelled the widespread disappointment, and scrutiny.
Guerrero’s explanation of lacking confidence has been met with skepticism, particularly given his reputation as a seasoned goalscorer. diariouno.pe described Guerrero as having “arrugado todito” – essentially, crumbled under pressure – and suggested his age may be a contributing factor to his hesitancy.
The elimination from the Copa Libertadores is a significant blow to Alianza Lima, both financially and in terms of prestige. The club reportedly lost a substantial sum of money as a result of failing to advance past the first round. Now, the focus shifts to the Peruvian Liga 1, where Alianza Lima will need to regroup and attempt to salvage something from the season. The internal dynamics within the team, and Guerrero’s role as captain, will be under intense scrutiny as they move forward.
The incident raises broader questions about the mental aspect of penalty taking, even for experienced professionals. Guerrero’s admission of lacking confidence highlights the immense pressure associated with such moments and the potential for even the most accomplished players to falter. The debate is likely to continue in the coming days and weeks, as Peruvian football analyzes the factors that contributed to Alianza Lima’s disappointing exit from the continent’s premier club competition.
Pablo Guede, the Alianza Lima coach, is also facing criticism, but has received backing from the club’s board. The team’s overall performance and tactical approach have been questioned, but Navarro’s support suggests the club is committed to giving Guede time to turn things around. The pressure, however, will be immense as Alianza Lima attempts to compete for domestic honors.
