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Pérez Zeledón
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Alajuelense
Prediction published on Jan 17, 2026 12:04 AM by Dario in Costa Rica - Primera Division | Modified on Jan 17, 2026 12:04 AM
The second round of the Liga Promerica brings an intriguing clash between Pérez Zeledón and Alajuelense, two sides that started the new campaign with contrasting results. The home team will look to build on their opening victory and surprise one of the strongest opponents in the competition, while the reigning champions aim to secure their first win of the season after being held to a draw in their debut. With both teams showing attacking intent in their first outings, this encounter promises to deliver plenty of excitement and intensity.
Pérez Zeledón began their 2026 campaign in style, defeating San Carlos 3-1 on January 13. That result not only gave them confidence but also placed them at the top of the table after the first round. Their recent record shows a team capable of scoring goals but also vulnerable at the back: in their last five matches, they have recorded 3 wins and 2 defeats, averaging 2.0 goals scored and 2.0 conceded per game.
Across the current Primera Division season, Pérez Zeledón have accumulated 7 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses, maintaining a balanced average of 1.5 goals scored and 1.5 conceded per match. One of their most consistent patterns is their second-half performance — Over 0.5 goals have been scored in 20 of their last 22 league games, showing that their matches tend to open up after the break. However, they have also struggled early on, losing at half time in 7 of their last 11 fixtures, something they will need to address against a team as solid as Alajuelense.
Alajuelense opened their title defense with a 2-2 draw against Municipal Liberia on January 16. Despite not winning, the champions showed their usual attacking strength, extending their unbeaten run in the Primera Division to 17 consecutive matches. Their consistency has been remarkable, and they remain one of the most difficult teams to beat in Costa Rica.
In their last five games, Alajuelense have achieved 2 wins and 3 draws, scoring an average of 2.2 goals while conceding only 1.2. Over the course of the season, their record stands at 14 wins, 6 draws, and just 2 defeats, with an impressive defensive average of 0.6 goals conceded per match. They also tend to dominate the first half, having avoided defeat at half time in 36 of their last 40 matches. Another notable trend is their involvement in corner-heavy games — Over 9.5 corners have been taken in each of their last 12 league fixtures, reflecting their attacking approach and constant pressure on opponents.
When it comes to direct encounters, Alajuelense have generally had the upper hand. In the last five meetings between the two sides, Pérez Zeledón have managed just one win, alongside two draws and two defeats. The most recent clash ended 3-2 on October 26, 2025, a result that highlighted the attacking potential of both teams. On average, these fixtures produce 1.4 goals scored by Pérez Zeledón and 1.6 conceded, suggesting a balanced yet slightly favorable trend for the visitors.
From a tactical perspective, Pérez Zeledón will likely rely on their offensive momentum and home advantage to challenge the champions. However, their defensive fragility could be a concern against an Alajuelense side that rarely fails to score. The visitors’ ability to control possession and create numerous chances, especially through set pieces and wide play, could make the difference in this encounter. Given their unbeaten streak and superior squad depth, Alajuelense enter this match as the clear favorites.
All indicators point toward a competitive match, but the balance of power leans toward the visitors. Pérez Zeledón’s strong start and attacking rhythm may allow them to find the net, yet Alajuelense’s consistency, defensive solidity, and experience in high-pressure games make them the more reliable side. The champions have not lost in 17 league outings and have shown the ability to recover even when trailing, which could prove decisive once again.
Considering the statistical trends — including the high likelihood of second-half goals and Alajuelense’s unbeaten form — the most probable outcome appears to be an away win. The match could still be tight, with both teams capable of scoring, but the visitors’ superior balance between attack and defense should see them through.
Pérez Zeledón vs Alajuelense prediction by BetMines: Away Win (2) with 45% probability.
This section provides average statistics and percentages on the main markets for the last 10 matches of both teams
Pérez Zeledón
Alajuelense
Under
Over
Under
Over
0.5
0
10
0
10
1.5
2
8
0
10
2.5
4
6
6
4
3.5
6
4
9
1
4.5
8
2
9
1