Alianza Lima Players Respond to Arturo Vidal's Disparaging Remarks

Alianza Lima players have responded to disparaging remarks made by Chilean footballer Arturo Vidal following a 0-0 draw between Alianza Lima and Colo Colo in the Copa Libertadores. After the match, Vidal claimed that Alianza Lima were not a real rival for Colo Colo and criticized the Peruvian team's defensive tactics.

"Alianza Lima hid behind and waited for our mistakes. They were never a match for us," Vidal said. The Colo Colo midfielder expressed frustration with the draw result and vowed that his team would go all out for three points when the two sides meet again in Lima.

However, Vidal's comments sparked outrage among Alianza Lima fans. Many questioned why Colo Colo did not score a goal if they were so superior to their opponents. Some fans also mocked Vidal for his past controversies, including a gambling addiction and a claim that he would take his children to the World Cup.

Alianza Lima players chose not to engage directly with Vidal's remarks. Goalkeeper Ángelo Campos and defender Renzo Garcés both stated that they do not comment on things they did not hear. "We are very respectful. If that is what he thinks, then that is his problem," Garcés said.

Why this matters: The controversy highlights the intense rivalry and competitive spirit in the Copa Libertadores, South America's premier club football tournament. Vidal's comments have added further fuel to the fire ahead of the upcoming rematch between Alianza Lima and Colo Colo in Peru.

Colo Colo players and their coach acknowledged the difficulty of facing Alianza Lima's defensive formation, despite generating scoring chances during the initial match. Alianza Lima, who are currently in last place in Group A, will look to bounce back when they host Colo Colo. The Peruvian side's next Copa Libertadores match is against Cerro Porteño on April 8th.

Key Takeaways

• Arturo Vidal criticized Alianza Lima's defensive tactics after 0-0 draw.
• Alianza Lima fans outraged by Vidal's comments, questioned Colo Colo's inability to score.
• Alianza Lima players chose not to engage directly with Vidal's remarks.
• Controversy highlights intense rivalry in Copa Libertadores ahead of rematch.
• Alianza Lima, last in Group A, to host Colo Colo in upcoming match.