With the aim of maintaining its sovereignty in Peruvian soccer and achieving a great performance in the upcoming Copa Libertadores, Alianza Lima presented its squad that will compete in the 2023 season at the Tarde Blanquiazul.
The club from La Victoria showcased a packed Alejandro Villanueva stadium, where fans were able to see their recent signings in the 'intimate' jersey for the first time, such as Gabriel Costa, Andrés Andrade, Franco Zanelatto, Jesús Castillo, Edinson Chávez, Bryan Reyna, Santiago García, Pablo Sabbag, and Ítalo Espinoza. However, the two-time national champion had one last surprise to give.
The "Tarde Blanquiazul" was the perfect opportunity to announce Carlos Zambrano as Alianza Lima's latest signing. The 'León', who had a great spell at Boca Juniors, arrived to reinforce the 'intimate' defense.
The 'Káiser'. Zambrano was presented as the new signing. Photo: diffusion
YOU CAN SEE: Farfán, Carrillo and Advíncula tease Zambrano after being presented by Alianza Lima
After the presentation, Hernán Barcos was in charge of giving some words that inspire the entire Alianza Lima fan base with a great campaign.
“We want to thank everyone for accompanying us not only today but throughout the year. Just to say that you believe, that you trust this group, we will not disappoint you, as we have done in these two years. This group is committed, this group wants the three-peat. In addition, we want to compete in the Libertadores, we are not satisfied with just winning one match, we want to compete in the Libertadores. We will need all of you with your constant support to achieve our goals,” said the 'Pirate'.
After the presentation, Guillermo Salas' team played an exhibition match against Junior de Barranquilla, which ended with a 2-1 victory for the hosts.
YOU CAN SEE: Barcos makes Matute Stadium shake: "Alianza Lima is the only four-time champion in Peruvian soccer"
Pablo Lavandeira and Gabriel Costa scored the goals for the 'intimate' team, both with headers, while Carlos Bacca scored for the Colombian team.
“The environment brings you a lot of emotions, it prepares you better. I had the illusion of coming here and starting well, and this prepares you for everything that lies ahead. Today we played a nice match and showed a good image, but we have to keep improving in many aspects. This gives us hope for the future,” Costa said after the match.
In style. Costa returned to Alianza Lima and scored a goal. Photo: diffusion
With a renewed team, Alianza Lima will have two more weeks to train and arrive in the best conditions for the match against Atlético Grau in the start of the 2023 Liga 1 season.
YOU CAN SEE: "Sing if you're the two-time champion!" Barcos and Ballón came out with both cups, causing Matute Stadium to explode
On the other hand, the 'intimate' team will only find out their opponents in the Libertadores on March 22, the date of the group stage draw.
Alianza Lima waits for 'Aladino'
José Bellina, sports manager of Alianza Lima, indicated that there is still a possibility of signing Christian Cueva; however, the situation of the midfielder seems to be complicated. "He is in the process of resolving his contract and then there is the lawsuit with Santos. We are waiting to see how things develop," he revealed.