Universidad de Chile opened their Copa Chile campaign with a 4-1 win over Santiago Wanderers on June 21 at Estadio Nacional. The victory was dedicated to coach Fernando Gago, who suffered an acute myocardial infarction days earlier and underwent emergency surgery.
Universidad de Chile players took the field displaying a banner reading “Fuerza, Fernando, estamos contigo”. Assistant coach Fabricio Coloccini led the team in the absence of Argentine manager Fernando Gago.
Captain Marcelo Morales said after the match: “Este triunfo se lo mandamos a él en la clínica”. Coloccini added that the goal was to “regalarle una victoria” to Gago, who was recovering under observation.
Universidad de Chile goals came from an own goal by Valenzuela in the 22nd minute, a strike by Maximiliano Guerrero in the 41st, a goal by Arce in the 49th and a finish by Ignacio Vásquez in the 89th. Santiago Wanderers pulled one back through Camarda in the 46th.
Universidad de Chile’s next opponent is Unión La Calera on June 24. Pipo Gorosito posted a message of support for Gago on X: “Fernando Gago que tengas una pronta recuperación, un fuerte abrazo”.
