SAN ISIDRO DE EL GENERAL, Costa Rica (Interstat) — Cartagines defied pregame projections and delivered a commanding performance on the road, defeating Perez Zeledon 3-1 on Monday in a Primera División match that saw the visitors seize control early and never relent.

The final score at Estadio Municipal Pérez Zeledón stood in stark contrast to the statistical expectations. Interstat’s game simulator had projected a 1-1 draw, while its ELO rating system gave Cartagines a 61.90 percent probability to win outright. Cartagines not only secured the victory but did so with a decisive two-goal margin, signaling a strong start to their domestic campaign.

The match began at a furious pace, with the visiting side stunning the home crowd almost immediately. In just the fifth minute, Jesús Rubio found the back of the net, giving Cartagines a vital early advantage on the road. The goal set the tone for the first half, putting Perez Zeledon under immediate pressure to respond.

Despite playing in front of their home supporters, Perez Zeledon struggled to build momentum and break down a disciplined Cartagines defense. Their task became significantly more difficult at the 35-minute mark when Jorman Aguilar doubled the visitors’ lead. The goal solidified Cartagines’ dominance in the opening period and sent the teams into halftime with the home side facing a two-goal deficit.

The second half continued the pattern of the first, with Cartagines maintaining their offensive pressure. They extended their lead further, scoring a third goal that put the result beyond any reasonable doubt. Perez Zeledon managed to salvage a measure of pride with a late consolation goal, avoiding a shutout but doing little to change the match’s outcome.

The comprehensive victory provides a significant boost for Cartagines at the outset of the season. Their record in the Primera División improved to one win and zero losses. Across all competitions, they now hold an identical perfect record. For Perez Zeledon, the loss marks a disappointing start to their league campaign. They now stand at zero wins and one loss in the Primera División, a record that mirrors their standing in all competitions after this opening fixture.

The match underscored Cartagines’ efficiency and ability to perform away from home. Their quick start, capped by Rubio’s early goal, effectively managed the game’s tempo and silenced the home supporters. The subsequent goals from Aguilar and another teammate demonstrated a clinical edge that Perez Zeledon lacked throughout the contest. While the home side managed to get on the scoresheet, their overall performance fell short of the level required to challenge a confident Cartagines squad.

The result places Cartagines in a positive position in the early league table, having secured three points on the road in a convincing fashion. For Perez Zeledon, the focus will turn to regrouping and addressing the defensive vulnerabilities exposed in their season opener as they look to secure their first points in the matches ahead.