O'Higgins advances to Copa de la Liga final after penalty shoot‑out win over Ñublense

O'Higgins de Rancagua advanced to the Copa de la Liga final after defeating Ñublense 4‑2 on penalties following a 1‑0 win in the second leg at Estadio Codelco El Teniente. The victory marks the club’s first final appearance in ten years and sets up a championship match against Coquimbo Unido, who eliminated Unión La Calera in the other semi‑final.

The match saw O‑Higgins dominate possession but struggle against Ñublense’s defensive tactics. After a goalless first half, a handball call by VAR in the 68th minute gave O‑Higgins a penalty, which Francisco González converted to level the series. The decisive goal forced extra time and ultimately a penalty shoot‑out, where the home side proved more accurate, converting four of six attempts.

Key figures included Omar Carabalí in goal, a backline of Felipe Faúndez, Alan Robledo, Miguel Brizuela and Luis Pavez, and midfielders Felipe Ogaz, Juan Leiva and Martín Sarrafiore. Coach Lucas Bovaglio made strategic substitutions, bringing on Bryan Rabello, Leandro Díaz and Arnaldo Castillo as the game unfolded. The attendance was 5,894 spectators, and the match featured two dismissals: Diego Céspedes of Ñublense in the 71st minute and coach Juan José Ribera in the 90th+1.

The final will be played in Valparaíso, with the venue and date to be confirmed by the ANFP. Success in the final would not only bring the championship trophy but also secure a spot in the 2027 Copa Libertadores, ending a decade-long wait for continental competition and fueling optimism among fans in the O'Higgins region.

El Rancagüino reported the full line‑ups and match details, confirming the significance of this historic moment for the club and its community.