Huachipato defeated Ñublense 1-0 at Estadio Nelson Oyarzún in Chillán, earning crucial points in the Chilean League standings. Carlo Villanueva's goal in the 69th minute lifted the steelmakers to 41 points, just three behind Cobresal and Colo Colo in the race for Copa Sudamericana qualification.
The match in Chillán was even from the start, with both teams trying to establish control in the opponent's half, though lacking clear chances. Ñublense relied on attacks from Matías Plaza and Giovanny Ávalos, but Huachipato's defense held firm. At the 20th minute, Rodrigo Odriozola made a key save on a shot from Plaza headed for goal.
Huachipato countered with attempts like a header from Leandro Díaz and a crossed shot from Maximiliano Gutiérrez, both off target. The first half was marked by frequent fouls and interruptions, leading to yellow cards for Pedro Sánchez and Gonzalo Sosa of Ñublense, and for Leandro Díaz and Cris Martínez of the visitors. Neither side scored before halftime.
The second half followed a similar pattern until the decisive goal. In the 69th minute, Carlo Villanueva slotted home left-footed into the corner for 1-0, his substitution boosting Huachipato's rhythm; Cris Martínez had earlier tested with a shot. Ñublense pushed forward in response, creating opportunities with long-range efforts from Plaza, Reyes, and Sosa, plus crosses from the flanks. The clearest chance came at the 84th minute, as Diego Sanhueza forced another superb stop from Odriozola.
Huachipato withstood the late pressure through defensive solidity and secured the away win. These three points bring them to 41, strengthening their Copa Sudamericana bid, while Ñublense remains on 30 points in 10th place, rueing a night of effort without reward.