Rinaldo Cruzado Backs Pablo Guede Amid Preseason Challenges
The Current State of Alianza Lima
Alianza Lima has assembled a competitive squad for the upcoming 2026 season, positioning itself as a strong contender for the national title. Leading the charge is coach Pablo Guede, who, despite facing early challenges in the preseason, remains committed to refining his approach.
The Preseason Tests
The Río de La Plata Series has served as a litmus test for the team. Unfortunately, Alianza Lima fell to defeats against Independiente de Avellaneda and Unión de Santa Fe, with both matches ending in 2-1 losses. However, former player Rinaldo Cruzado, a four-time champion with the club, assures fans that the situation is far from dire.
Cruzado emphasizes that the friendly tournament is ultimately a platform for analysis and growth. In a recent interview, he noted that Guede possesses the skills necessary to turn the team’s fortunes around, stating, “He is a trained technician for what Alianza wants today.”
Trusting the Process
Despite the unsatisfactory results, Cruzado expresses confidence in Guede’s vision. “The preseason results leave you with a different taste, but things will surely improve. They are searching for the best eleven,” he remarked, urging fans to respect the process and the coach’s clear tactical ideas.
Managing Player Dynamics
A notable moment during the matches highlighted the relationship between Guede and player Sergio Peña. The coach was heard chastising Peña for not advancing the ball during a critical juncture. Guede later clarified that his comments were part of the game strategy and that he harbors no animosity toward Peña.
Guede underscored Peña’s potential, calling him “a good footballer, who is an alliance member at heart” and commending his work ethic in training. This indicates the close-knit nature of the team as they navigate through these testing times.
Looking Ahead
Alianza Lima’s next matchup is against Colo Colo, set to kick-off at 7:00 p.m. Peru time. Fans can tune in via Disney Plus in Peru and other South American nations, while Argentina will have access through ESPN Premium. This game will be pivotal for the team to gain momentum.
Conclusion
With a strong backing from former players and a solid strategy in place, Pablo Guede is poised to navigate Alianza Lima through the early challenges of the season. Supporters will be keen to see how the team evolves as they continue to test their capabilities in the preseason.