Defending champions Universidad Católica defeated Vinotinto 3-2 in an emotional match to advance to the quarter-finals of the Copa Ecuador 2026. The team remains committed to its goal of defending the tournament title.
Universidad Católica opened the scoring with an own goal by Lucero and extended the lead through José Fajardo. Vinotinto fought back with goals from Sánchez and Vargas to create suspense as the match appeared headed for extra time.
Panamanian forward Fajardo scored the decisive goal in the 95th minute to secure qualification for Universidad Católica. The Quito side will now face the winner of the tie between Astillero FC and Dalquilema in the quarter-finals.
