Tools
Alajuelense
2 - 0
FT
Cartaginés
Prediction published on Mar 3, 2026 12:02 AM by Dario in Costa Rica - Primera Division | Modified on Mar 3, 2026 12:02 AM
The clash between Alajuelense and Cartaginés promises to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the tenth round in the Liga Promerica. The reigning champions will try to bounce back in front of their fans after a disappointing run of results that has seen them slip to sixth place in the standings. Their latest setback, a 2-0 defeat against Puntarenas, has raised concerns about their current form. However, playing at home could provide the boost they need to return to winning ways and stay in contention for the top spots.
Alajuelense have endured a mixed run of results recently, with only one win in their last five matches (1 win, 1 draw, 3 defeats). During this stretch, they have averaged 1.2 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game, a clear sign that their defensive solidity has weakened compared to earlier in the season. Despite this dip, their overall campaign numbers remain strong: 16 wins, 9 draws, and 6 losses in the Primera Division, with an average of 1.6 goals scored and just 0.8 conceded per match.
At home, the Rojinegros tend to dominate possession and create numerous chances, often forcing opponents to defend deep. Their matches have also been lively in terms of set pieces — over 8.5 corners have been recorded in 19 of their last 20 league games, and the same trend continues in 12 consecutive home fixtures. This attacking intent, combined with the support of their fans, could be decisive in turning their form around.
Cartaginés arrive in this encounter in better shape, sitting third in the table with 17 points — just two behind the leaders. A win here could potentially lift them to the top, depending on other results. Their most recent outing ended in a 1-1 draw against San Carlos, a result that extended their steady but unspectacular run of form: two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches. They have averaged 0.8 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game during this period, showing a more conservative approach compared to their rivals.
Defensively, the Blanquiazules have been consistent, keeping most of their matches tight. Under 3.5 total goals have been recorded in each of their last 13 league games, and remarkably, in 19 of their last 20 away fixtures. This pattern suggests that Cartaginés prefer to keep things compact on the road, relying on discipline and counterattacks rather than open play. However, their limited scoring output could be a concern against a side that usually dominates at home.
Historically, Alajuelense have had the upper hand in this fixture. In their last five meetings, they have recorded two wins, two draws, and one defeat, scoring an average of 0.8 goals per game while conceding only 0.4. The most recent encounter ended 1-0 in favor of Alajuelense on January 22, 2026, a result that underlines their ability to edge tight contests against this opponent.
Given the current dynamics, this match could follow a similar pattern — a cautious start, with Alajuelense pressing higher and Cartaginés looking to exploit spaces on the counter. The home side’s attacking numbers and corner frequency suggest they will create more opportunities, but Cartaginés’ defensive discipline could make it a low-scoring affair. Both teams have shown a tendency toward matches with fewer than three goals, which aligns with their recent statistical trends.
Considering the data and recent performances, Alajuelense appear slightly favored to take all three points, especially with home advantage and a strong historical record in this fixture. However, Cartaginés’s defensive consistency and low-scoring tendencies could keep the game tight until the final whistle. The most probable scenario points to a narrow home win, possibly by a single-goal margin.
Alajuelense vs Cartaginés prediction by BetMines:
Home Win (1) with 63% probability.
This section provides average statistics and percentages on the main markets for the last 10 matches of both teams
Alajuelense
Cartaginés
Under
Over
Under
Over
0.5
0
10
0
10
1.5
0
10
2
8
2.5
6
4
3
7
3.5
9
1
6
4
4.5
9
1
7
3