On March 4, 2026, Universitario de Deportes<\/strong> faced off against C\u00e9sar Vallejo University<\/strong> in a friendly match at the Campo Mar facilities. The game concluded in a 2-2 draw, with notable performances from midfielder Yuriel Celi<\/strong> and youth player Christopher Loayza<\/strong>, both playing integral roles in equalizing for the team under coach Javier Rabanal<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Universitario started the game with an alternative lineup, a strategic choice aimed at providing game time to substitutes and fringe players following their recent 1-0 victory over FC Cajamarca<\/strong> in the Apertura Tournament<\/strong>. This friendly served as an opportunity to integrate players who had seen limited action in previous games.<\/p>\n The ‘U’ made their presence known with a lineup featuring Miguel Vargas<\/strong> in goal, supported by defenders Hugo Ancajima, Joaqu\u00edn Verde, Paolo Reyna<\/strong>, and C\u00e9sar Inga<\/strong>. The midfield included Jorge Murrugarra, Miguel Silveira, Yuriel Celi<\/strong>, and Christopher Loayza<\/strong>, while the attack was led by Adri\u00e1n C\u00e1ceres<\/strong> and Jos\u00e9 Rivera<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The match began on a challenging note for Universitario, as they found themselves trailing after an early goal from Osnar Noronha<\/strong> of C\u00e9sar Vallejo. Noronha capitalized on a defensive error by Ancajima, who failed to clear the ball effectively, allowing Noronha to score without opposition.<\/p>\n However, Universitario responded before the end of the first half. Yuriel Celi<\/strong> found the back of the net after recovering a rebound. He skillfully evaded a defender and placed a precise shot into the far corner, leveling the score at 1-1. It was a moment of relief for the team, demonstrating Celi’s attacking prowess.<\/p>\n The second half saw C\u00e9sar Vallejo regain the lead with a goal from Frank Ysique<\/strong>, who managed to slip past Vargas with a shot between the goalkeeper’s legs, putting the score at 2-1. This goal put pressure back on Universitario as time was running out.<\/p>\n In a thrilling climax, Christopher Loayza<\/strong>, an 18-year-old talent, emerged as a hero by equalizing the match at 2-2. Taking advantage of a low pass from Jorge Murrugarra<\/strong>, Loayza showcased his speed and composure by outpacing a defender and rounding the goalkeeper to score into an empty net. This goal not only secured a draw but also marked Loayza’s first with Universitario, igniting celebrations among teammates and fans.<\/p>\n With this draw, Universitario continues to prepare for the challenging encounter against Los Chankas<\/strong>, set for March 8 at the altitude of Andahuaylas. This match is crucial, as Universitario aims to build momentum in the Apertura Tournament<\/strong>. The team will undoubtedly look to capitalize on the encouraging performances from Celi and Loayza as they navigate their upcoming fixtures.<\/p>\nMatch Overview<\/h3>\n
Goals Breakdown<\/h3>\n
Second Half Tension<\/h3>\n
Looking Ahead<\/h3>\n