Los Chankas vs Santos: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Friday, 26 June 2026 by Steve
Los Chankas CYC vs Santos FC de Nazca
Copa de la Liga 2026 Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
Jean Deza fue anunciado como refuerzo de Santos FC de Nazca tras librarse de la prisión preventiva y jugará la Liga 2 | Nolberto Solano | Jesús Barco | FUTBOL-PERUANO | DEPOR
The inaugural edition of the Copa de la Liga 2026 reaches a critical juncture as Group G leaders Los Chankas CYC host Santos FC de Nazca in what promises to be a decisive encounter at the Estadio Los Chankas in Andahuaylas. This matchup represents a fascinating clash between Liga 1 pedigree and Liga 2 ambition, with both teams entering the fixture level on points after securing opening-day victories. The 2026 Copa de la Liga, officially known as the Copa Caliente de la Liga for sponsorship reasons, marks Peru's first true national cup competition featuring all 18 Liga 1 teams alongside 16 Liga 2 sides, divided into ten groups with the top two from each group advancing to the knockout rounds.
Los Chankas CYC come into this fixture riding the momentum of their hard-fought 1-0 away victory against Ayacucho FC on June 14, 2026, a result that demonstrated their defensive resilience and ability to grind out results when it matters most. Under the guidance of head coach Walter Paolella, who has maintained an impressive 55% win rate across 38 matches with an average of 1.82 points per game, the Andahuaylas-based club has established themselves as genuine contenders in Peru's top flight. Currently sitting in second place in the Liga 1 Apertura standings with 30 points from 14 matches, Los Chankas have proven their quality with a remarkable home record of 7 wins, 1 draw, and just 1 defeat, scoring 22 goals while conceding only 16 in the process.
Santos FC de Nazca, meanwhile, have been one of the surprise packages of the Copa de la Liga so far, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ayacucho in their opening group match on June 22, 2026. The Liga 2 side, celebrating their 50th anniversary this year after being founded on May 30, 1976, have assembled an ambitious squad under coach Guillermo "Chicho" Salas, who was appointed on January 26, 2026, with the explicit mandate of mounting a serious promotion challenge. With a total market value of approximately €1.60 million and a squad featuring experienced campaigners like 38-year-old centre-forward Miguel Curiel and 33-year-old left winger Jean Deza, Santos have shown they are not intimidated by higher-division opposition. Their Copa de la Liga campaign represents a golden opportunity to test themselves against Liga 1 quality, and a positive result against Los Chankas would send shockwaves through Peruvian football.
Tactical Preview
Miguel Curiel le dió el empate a Santos
Formation & Key Matchups
Los Chankas CYC 4-2-3-1 / 3-5-2
Coach Walter Paolella has demonstrated tactical flexibility throughout the 2026 season, primarily deploying a 4-2-3-1 formation that transitions into a 3-5-2 when defending with a low block. The home side's tactical approach centers on controlling the midfield through the experienced duo of Abdiel Ayarza and Jorge Palomino, with the Panamanian international Ayarza providing the defensive shield while Palomino dictates tempo. Los Chankas have averaged 1.47 goals per match in Liga 1 this season, with a notable tendency to score more in the second half (0.65 goals per game in the second 45 minutes compared to 0.82 in the first). Their defensive organization has been commendable, recording 5 clean sheets in 17 matches across all competitions, though they have shown vulnerability against teams that press high, as evidenced by their 0-3 defeat away to Alianza Lima on May 24, 2026. The wide areas are crucial to their attack, with Ayrthon Quintana and the versatile Franco Torres providing width and creativity, while the target man Jarlín Quintero offers a physical presence in the box.
Santos FC de Nazca 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1
Coach Guillermo Salas favors a pragmatic 4-4-2 formation that can morph into a 4-2-3-1 when in possession, with the experienced Yorkman Tello and Neil Marcos providing defensive cover in central midfield. Santos' tactical identity is built on disciplined defensive organization and rapid transitions, utilizing the pace of wingers Alexis Rojas and Jean Deza on the flanks to stretch opposition defenses. Their 2-1 victory over Ayacucho showcased their ability to absorb pressure and punish mistakes on the counter-attack, with Miguel Curiel demonstrating his predatory instincts in front of goal. The defensive partnership of Merlyn Estacio and Piero Toledo has shown promising chemistry, though they will face their sternest test yet against Los Chankas' multifaceted attack. Santos have been active in the transfer market, bringing in 26 new players during the 2025/2026 preseason window, including several with Liga 1 experience such as Ángelo Pizzorno, who previously played for Cienciano, Alianza Atlético, and Los Chankas himself, giving him unique insider knowledge of the opposition.
Critical Vulnerability
Santos FC de Nazca's most significant tactical vulnerability lies in their defensive transitions when facing technically superior opponents. While they have been solid against Liga 2 opposition, their backline - featuring relatively inexperienced partnerships at this level - has yet to be truly tested by a Liga 1 attacking unit of Los Chankas' caliber. The high altitude of Andahuaylas (approximately 2,926 meters above sea level) presents an additional challenge that could affect Santos' ability to maintain their defensive shape in the latter stages of the match. Los Chankas, conversely, must be wary of complacency; their mixed recent form (winning just 1 of their last 5 Liga 1 matches) suggests they are not at their sharpest, and Santos' counter-attacking threat through the likes of Jean Deza and Luis Aguirre could exploit any defensive lapses. The key tactical battle will be fought in midfield, where Los Chankas' superior technical quality must overcome Santos' physicality and pressing intensity.
Team News & Squad Status
Los Chankas CYC 📈
- Abdiel Ayarza (CM) - The Panamanian midfielder has been in excellent form, contributing 5 goals in Liga 1 this season. His box-to-box energy and defensive discipline will be crucial in controlling the midfield battle.
- Franco Torres (FW) - Leading scorer with 6 Liga 1 goals and a FotMob rating of 7.45, Torres is the team's primary attacking threat. His movement off the ball and clinical finishing make him a constant danger.
- Jorge Palomino (DM) - Rated 7.20 on FotMob, Palomino has been the metronome of this Los Chankas side, averaging key passes and maintaining possession under pressure.
- Adrián Quiróz (DM) - The chief creator with 3 assists this season, Quiróz provides the link between defense and attack. His set-piece delivery could prove decisive against Santos' aerially vulnerable defense.
- Ayrthon Quintana (LB/WB) - With 3 assists and an ability to operate as both a defensive full-back and attacking wing-back, Quintana offers tactical flexibility down the left flank.
- Team Form: Mixed recent form with 1 win in last 5 Liga 1 matches (W-D-L-L-D), but strong home record of 7-1-1 in the Apertura.
- Copa de la Liga: 1-0 away win vs Ayacucho (June 14, 2026). Currently 2nd in Group G.
- Injury Concerns: No major injury concerns reported. Full squad available for selection.
Santos FC de Nazca 📊
- Miguel Curiel (ST) - The 38-year-old veteran is the team's top scorer and emotional leader. His experience and positioning in the box make him Santos' most reliable goal threat.
- Jean Deza (LW) - A 33-year-old winger with previous Liga 1 experience at Sport Huancayo and Juan Pablo II College. Deza provides creativity and set-piece quality from the left flank.
- Neil Marcos (DM) - Arrived from FC Cajamarca in January 2026, Marcos brings Liga 1 experience and defensive steel to the midfield. He has been instrumental in Santos' organized defensive structure.
- Yorkman Tello (DM) - Signed from Club Argentino in Argentina, Tello has adapted quickly to Santos' system. His physical presence and tackling ability will be tested against Los Chankas' technical midfielders.
- Paolo Izaguirre (GK) - The 28-year-old goalkeeper arrived from Ayacucho FC in January 2026 and has established himself as the first-choice keeper. His shot-stopping will be crucial against Los Chankas' attack.
- Team Form: Santos are in the early stages of their Liga 2 campaign. Their Copa de la Liga form shows promise with a 2-1 win over Ayacucho.
- Copa de la Liga: 2-1 home win vs Ayacucho (June 22, 2026). Currently 1st in Group G on goal difference.
- Squad Depth: 27 players in the senior squad with an average age of 26.8 years. Five foreign players (18.5%) add international experience.
Predicted Lineups
Estoy trabajando para llegar a la selección de Panamá de nuevo”: Ayarza y su confesión para regresar a Perú y jugar con los Chankas | FUTBOL-PERUANO | DEPOR
| Los Chankas CYC 4-2-3-1 | Santos FC Nazca 4-4-2 |
|---|---|
| GK: Hairo Camacho | GK: Paolo Izaguirre |
| RB: Carlos Pimienta | RB: Ronaldo Andía |
| CB: Gonzalo Rizzo | CB: Merlyn Estacio |
| CB: Michael Kaufman | CB: Piero Toledo |
| LB: Ayrthon Quintana | LB: Gerardo Quiroz |
| DM: Abdiel Ayarza | RM: Jose Franco |
| DM: Jorge Palomino | CM: Neil Marcos |
| RW: Oshiro Takeuchi | CM: Yorkman Tello |
| AM: Adrián Quiróz | LM: Jean Deza |
| LW: Franco Torres | ST: Miguel Curiel |
| ST: Jarlín Quintero | ST: Luis Aguirre |
Head-to-Head Record
The head-to-head history between Los Chankas CYC and Santos FC de Nazca reveals a competitive rivalry that has produced mixed results over recent seasons. In their last five encounters across all competitions, Los Chankas have emerged victorious on two occasions, with two draws and one defeat, averaging 1.0 goals scored per match while conceding 1.2. The most recent meeting saw Santos claim a 1-0 victory, though Los Chankas had previously dominated with a resounding 4-1 home win. The historical pattern suggests that home advantage plays a significant role in this fixture, with the team hosting typically enjoying greater success. Los Chankas' fortress at the Estadio Los Chankas has been particularly formidable, while Santos have struggled to replicate their home form on the road against higher-division opposition.
Looking deeper into the historical context, Los Chankas have generally had the upper hand when playing at home, utilizing the high-altitude conditions of Andahuaylas to their advantage. Santos, as a Liga 2 club, have historically found it challenging to compete consistently with Liga 1 sides, though their recent transfer activity and the appointment of experienced coach Guillermo Salas suggests they are closing the gap. The psychological edge may lie with Los Chankas given their superior league standing and home advantage, but Santos' recent Copa de la Liga victory and the confidence gained from that result could level the playing field. For bettors exploring hot predictions for this encounter, the historical data suggests a closely contested affair with goals likely at both ends.
Key Players Comparison
Franco Torres (Los Chankas)
Rating: 7.45 | Goals: 6 | Assists: 3
The Argentine forward has been Los Chankas' standout performer this season, combining clinical finishing with intelligent movement. His ability to operate across the front line makes him difficult to mark, and his partnership with Jarlín Quintero has yielded consistent results.
Miguel Curiel (Santos)
Position: Centre-Forward | Age: 38 | Goals: TBD
The veteran striker remains Santos' primary goal threat despite his advancing years. Curiel's experience and positioning sense make him dangerous in the box, and he will look to exploit any defensive lapses from Los Chankas' backline.
Abdiel Ayarza (Los Chankas)
Rating: 7.20 | Goals: 5 | Nationality: Panama
The Panamanian international has brought international quality to Los Chankas' midfield. His ability to break up opposition attacks and initiate counter-attacks with precise passing will be crucial in controlling the tempo against Santos.
Jean Deza (Santos)
Position: Left Winger | Age: 33 | Market Value: €100k
Deza's pace and dribbling ability on the left flank provide Santos with their primary creative outlet. His previous Liga 1 experience means he understands the level required, and his set-piece delivery could unlock Los Chankas' defense.
The individual battles across the pitch will ultimately determine the outcome of this contest. In midfield, the clash between Abdiel Ayarza and Yorkman Tello represents a fascinating duel between technical proficiency and physicality. Ayarza's superior passing range and vision give him the edge in open play, but Tello's relentless pressing and tackling could disrupt Los Chankas' rhythm if they are not sharp with their ball retention. Out wide, Franco Torres' versatility against Ronaldo Andía's defensive discipline will be another key matchup, with Torres likely to drift inside to create overloads in central areas. For Santos, much will depend on Jean Deza's ability to isolate and beat his marker, while Miguel Curiel must capitalize on any half-chances that come his way against the experienced central defensive pairing of Gonzalo Rizzo and Michael Kaufman. Those seeking tomorrow's football predictions should pay close attention to these individual matchups when placing their wagers.
The Managers
Walter Paolella (Los Chankas)
Walter Paolella has transformed Los Chankas into one of the most competitive sides in Liga 1 since taking charge. With an impressive managerial record of a 55% win rate across 38 matches and an average of 1.82 points per game, Paolella has instilled a winning mentality at the Estadio Los Chankas. His tactical approach emphasizes defensive solidity as the foundation for success, with Los Chankas recording 5 clean sheets in 17 matches this season. Paolella is not afraid to make bold decisions, as evidenced by his willingness to rotate his squad and adapt formations based on the opposition. Under his guidance, Los Chankas have risen to 2nd place in the Liga 1 Apertura standings, making them genuine title contenders.
Paolella's man-management skills have been equally impressive, getting the best out of veteran players like Abdiel Ayarza while integrating new signings such as Kenyi Barrios from Ayacucho FC and Michel Kaufman from Bentín Tacna Heroica seamlessly into the squad. His experience in South American football has taught him the importance of adapting to different conditions, and he will undoubtedly have prepared his team meticulously for the unique challenges posed by Santos' counter-attacking approach. For those interested in draw no bet predictions, Paolella's conservative approach in big games makes Los Chankas a reliable option.
Guillermo "Chicho" Salas (Santos FC Nazca)
Guillermo Salas, affectionately known as "Chicho," was appointed as Santos FC de Nazca's head coach on January 26, 2026, with a clear mandate: secure promotion to Liga 1. Salas brought with him a wealth of experience in Peruvian football, having previously managed several clubs in the domestic league system. His appointment coincided with an ambitious recruitment drive that saw 26 new players arrive at the Estadio Municipal de Nasca, transforming the squad's depth and quality. Salas has implemented a pragmatic 4-4-2 system that prioritizes defensive organization and quick transitions, a style that has proven effective against technically superior opponents.
Salas' greatest achievement so far has been instilling belief in his squad that they can compete with Liga 1 opposition, as demonstrated by their 2-1 Copa de la Liga victory over Ayacucho. His ability to motivate veteran players like Miguel Curiel and Jean Deza while giving opportunities to younger talents has created a balanced squad capable of causing upsets. However, Salas faces his toughest managerial challenge yet against Los Chankas, a team that combines technical quality with the physical demands of high-altitude football. His tactical preparation and in-game adjustments will be critical if Santos are to leave Andahuaylas with a positive result. Fans looking for win either half tips should consider Salas' tendency to set his teams up cautiously in the first half before opening up after the break.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65
Los Chankas' superior quality, home advantage at high altitude, and Liga 1 pedigree make them strong favorites to secure all three points. Their opening 1-0 Copa de la Liga victory away to Ayacucho demonstrated their ability to win ugly when necessary, while their Liga 1 form (2nd place in Apertura) confirms their overall quality. Santos, despite their promising start, remain a Liga 2 side that has yet to prove they can consistently compete at this level. The 1.65 odds represent excellent value for a home win, especially considering Los Chankas' formidable 7-1-1 home record in the league this season.
Odds: 2.10
While Los Chankas have shown defensive solidity at times, both teams have reasons to attack in this fixture. Los Chankas need a win to secure top spot in Group G, while Santos cannot afford another defeat if they hope to advance. Los Chankas have scored 25 goals in 17 matches this season (1.47 per game), and their attacking trio of Franco Torres, Jarlín Quintero, and Abdiel Ayarza has the quality to break down Santos' defense. Santos, meanwhile, have shown they can find the net against Liga 1 opposition, scoring twice against Ayacucho. The over 2.5 goals market at 2.10 offers attractive value for those seeking over under predictions with genuine potential for a high-scoring encounter.
Odds: 1.95
Santos have demonstrated their attacking capabilities by scoring in their Copa de la Liga opener, and with experienced finishers like Miguel Curiel and creative players like Jean Deza, they are likely to create chances against Los Chankas. The home side's defense, while generally solid, has shown vulnerabilities - conceding 7 goals in their last 5 Liga 1 matches. Los Chankas' attacking quality is undeniable, with Franco Torres in excellent form. The BTTS market at 1.95 is appealing given the likelihood that both teams will find the net in an open, competitive encounter. For GG/NG betting tips, this fixture strongly favors the "both teams to score" outcome.
Odds: 2.25
For bettors seeking higher returns, the Asian handicap market offers an intriguing option. Los Chankas' quality advantage, combined with the altitude factor and their strong home form, suggests they could win by a margin of two or more goals. Their 4-1 home victory over Santos in a previous encounter demonstrates their capability to dominate this fixture when playing in Andahuaylas. The -1 Asian handicap at 2.25 provides a safety net (stake returned if they win by exactly one goal) while offering enhanced odds for those confident in a comfortable home victory. This selection aligns with double chance prediction strategies that seek to maximize value while managing risk.
Odds: 11.00
Our final score prediction of 3-1 to Los Chankas is supported by several factors. The home side's attacking firepower, led by Franco Torres and Abdiel Ayarza, should see them create numerous chances against a Santos defense that, while organized, lacks the individual quality to contain Liga 1 attackers for 90 minutes. Los Chankas have shown they can score multiple goals at home, while Santos' counter-attacking threat through Jean Deza and Miguel Curiel gives them a realistic chance of finding the net. The 3-1 correct score at 11.00 represents a speculative but potentially lucrative bet for those seeking higher returns. For more correct score tips, this market offers significant upside for risk-tolerant bettors.
📊 Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 3-1 victory for Los Chankas CYC is grounded in a thorough analysis of both teams' current form, tactical setups, and historical performance data. Los Chankas enter this fixture as clear favorites, boasting Liga 1 quality throughout their squad, a formidable home record, and the significant advantage of playing at high altitude in Andahuaylas. Their attacking unit, spearheaded by Franco Torres (6 Liga 1 goals) and supported by the creative talents of Abdiel Ayarza and Adrián Quiróz, possesses the quality to break down Santos' organized but ultimately less experienced defense. We anticipate Los Chankas will control possession and create the majority of clear-cut chances, with their superior technical ability in midfield allowing them to dictate the tempo of the game.
Santos FC de Nazca, to their credit, have shown they are not mere cannon fodder for Liga 1 sides. Their 2-1 Copa de la Liga victory over Ayacucho demonstrated organization, fighting spirit, and the ability to punish defensive mistakes. We expect coach Guillermo Salas to set his team up to frustrate Los Chankas and hit them on the counter-attack, with Jean Deza's pace and Miguel Curiel's predatory instincts offering a genuine threat. However, the cumulative effect of altitude, Los Chankas' relentless pressure, and the quality gap between the divisions should ultimately prove too much for Santos to overcome. Our predicted 3-1 scoreline reflects Los Chankas' dominance while acknowledging Santos' capacity to score what would likely be a consolation goal. For those exploring fulltime prediction markets, the home win with goals at both ends offers the most compelling value proposition.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Home Dominance: Los Chankas have won 7 of their 9 home Liga 1 matches this season (7-1-1 record), scoring 22 goals and conceding just 16. Their fortress at Estadio Los Chankas is a significant factor in this fixture.
- Altitude Advantage: Andahuaylas sits at approximately 2,926 meters above sea level. Visiting teams frequently struggle with the thin air, and Santos' players will need to manage their energy carefully to remain competitive in the second half.
- Group G Standings: Both teams are level on 3 points after opening-day victories. Los Chankas beat Ayacucho 1-0 away, while Santos defeated Ayacucho 2-1 at home. Goal difference currently favors Santos (+1 vs +1, but Santos scored more).
- Scoring Form: Los Chankas have scored 25 goals in 17 matches across all competitions this season (1.47 per game). Franco Torres leads with 6 Liga 1 goals, while Abdiel Ayarza has contributed 5.
- Defensive Record: Los Chankas have kept 5 clean sheets in 17 matches. However, they have conceded 21 goals overall, indicating some defensive vulnerability that Santos could exploit.
- Squad Investment: Santos made 26 signings for the 2026 season, including several players with Liga 1 experience such as Neil Marcos, Yorkman Tello, and Ángelo Pizzorno. Their total market value of €1.60M reflects serious ambition.
- Managerial Records: Walter Paolella boasts a 55% win rate at Los Chankas (1.82 PPG), while Guillermo Salas is still building his legacy at Santos but has already delivered a significant Copa de la Liga upset.
- Recent Form Context: Los Chankas' Liga 1 form has been mixed recently (1 win in last 5), but their Copa de la Liga opening win suggests they are prioritizing cup success. Santos are buoyed by their opening victory.
- Key Player Matchup: Franco Torres (7.45 FotMob rating, 6 goals) vs Santos' center-backs Merlyn Estacio and Piero Toledo will be decisive. If Torres gets service, he will score.
- European Odds Value: The 1.65 for a Los Chankas win represents strong value given their home record and quality advantage. The over 2.5 goals at 2.10 and BTTS at 1.95 also offer attractive propositions.
Conclusion
The Copa de la Liga 2026 Group G clash between Los Chankas CYC and Santos FC de Nazca represents one of the most intriguing matchups of the tournament's group stage. While the gulf in class between Liga 1 and Liga 2 would normally make this a straightforward prediction, Santos' ambitious squad rebuild, their opening-day victory, and the appointment of experienced coach Guillermo Salas have transformed them into genuine giant-killers. However, Los Chankas' home advantage at the Estadio Los Chankas, combined with their superior technical quality, attacking firepower, and the significant factor of high-altitude football, makes them overwhelming favorites to secure the victory they need to top the group.
Our prediction of a 3-1 Los Chankas victory reflects the home side's dominance in possession and chance creation, while acknowledging Santos' capacity to score through counter-attacks and set-pieces. Franco Torres, Abdiel Ayarza, and Jarlín Quintero should prove too much for Santos' defense over 90 minutes, though the visitors' fighting spirit means they are unlikely to leave without testing Hairo Camacho in the Los Chankas goal. For bettors, the home win at 1.65 is the safest selection, while the over 2.5 goals and BTTS markets offer excellent value for those seeking higher returns. The football predictions landscape for this fixture strongly favors the Liga 1 side, but Santos have already shown they cannot be underestimated.
Ultimately, this match encapsulates the beauty of the Copa de la Liga - a competition designed to give lower-division clubs a platform to test themselves against Peru's elite. Whether Santos can pull off another famous upset or Los Chankas assert their superiority remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: football fans in Andahuaylas and beyond are in for a compelling 90 minutes of Copa de la Liga action. For comprehensive betting analysis and football insights, continue following our coverage of the 2026 Copa de la Liga season.