Saprissa Rescues Draw Against Liberia in Clausura 2024 Matchday 18

Deportivo Saprissa salvaged a 2-2 draw against Municipal Liberia in a controversial and agonizing match to start Clausura 2024 matchday 18 at the Ricardo Saprissa Aymá Stadium in Tibás. The result is not positive for Saprissa, as they missed the opportunity to take the league lead, while Liberia gained a valuable point playing away against one of the top teams.

Saprissa dominated possession but faced a determined and effective Liberia side, who took the lead through Elvis Mosquera in the 31st minute. Saprissa equalized in the second half through Javon East in the 54th minute, but Liberia regained the lead through Juan Fernando Caicedo in the 85th minute. In the final minutes, Fidel Escobar scored a controversial equalizer for Saprissa in the 93rd minute, as he was in an offside position.

The draw leaves Saprissa and Herediano tied at the top of the table with 35 points each, but Herediano has a better goal difference and a game in hand. Liberia reached 27 points with the draw and occupies the fifth position, two points behind the third-placed team.

Why this matters: The result has significant implications for the Clausura 2024 title race, with Saprissa missing a chance to take sole possession of first place. The controversial late equalizer also adds drama and talking points around the match.

Saprissa had to come from behind twice to rescue a point at home. "We controlled the game for the most part, but Liberia put up a strong fight and nearly secured the victory before our late equalizer," said Saprissa head coach Jeaustin Campos. The next round will see Saprissa visit Morera Soto for the national classic against Herediano, while Liberia hosts Cartaginés.

Key Takeaways

• Saprissa drew 2-2 with Liberia in a controversial Clausura 2024 match.
• Saprissa missed chance to take league lead, Liberia gained valuable away point.
• Saprissa equalized late through controversial offside goal by Fidel Escobar.
• Saprissa and Herediano tied at top, Liberia 5th with 27 points.
• Next round sees Saprissa visit Herediano, Liberia host Cartaginés.