CS Herediano wins third straight to seal quarterfinals appearance | OneFootball

PENONOMÉ, Panama – CS Herediano won 1-nil at San Francisco FC in the 2024 Central American Cup on Thursday at Estadio Universidad Latina in Penonomé, Panama.

With the victory, Herediano seals its place in the quarterfinals and becomes the fourth club to clinch a spot in the knockout round. The Costa Rican side has claimed three wins for nine points and the lead in Group A.

Herediano goalkeeper Aarón Cruz had four saves as he collected his third consecutive clean sheet in the 2024 edition.

Jhamal Rodríguez had a long-range attempt in the 29’ in a close chance for the hosts that Cruz denied.

Jorge Méndez had a promising opportunity for San Francisco inside the box in the 50’, but Cruz again denied the home club.

Carlos Rojas hit the post with a right-footed strike from outside the box in another close opportunity for San Francisco.

Yendrick Ruiz scored the match-winner for Herediano in the 85’ with a smashing header inside the box, following a build-up and cross from Darryl Araya on the right flank.

Herediano will aim to close the group stage with an unbeaten record against FC Motagua on August 28 in Heredia, Costa Rica.

San Francisco FC will conclude its participation in the 2024 edition by facing fellow Panamanian side Tauro FC on August 27 at the Estadio Rommel Fernández.