Late Marabel Strike Sends Palestino Back to the Top of Chilean League

Palestino reclaimed the top spot in the Chilean Primera División on Monday after a dramatic 1-0 win over Unión La Calera at the Estadio Municipal de La Cisterna. According to Cooperativa.cl, the victory lifts the team to 16 points, one ahead of Coquimbo Unido, after Matchday 7.

Lucas Bovaglio’s squad entered the game on a high following their midweek Copa Sudamericana triumph over Unión de Santa Fe. They looked to build on that momentum early, dominating possession and creating chances through Nicolás Meza and Ariel Martínez, though both failed to convert. Before halftime, Gonzalo Tapia and Junior Marabel tested goalkeeper Jorge Peña, who held firm.

The second half saw a shift in dynamics as Unión La Calera pushed forward in search of the opener. Clear chances from Sebastián Sáez and Christopher Díaz signaled a more aggressive approach, putting pressure on the home side’s backline. But it was Palestino who ultimately broke the deadlock.

In the 84th minute, Pablo Parra found space down the flank and delivered a low cross into the box. A slip from a Calera defender opened the door for Junior Marabel, who calmly slotted home to seal the win.

The goal sparked celebrations and secured three crucial points for Palestino, who continue to balance domestic ambition with continental competition. Unión La Calera remain in sixth place with ten points, still in contention for international qualification but slipping from the league’s top tier