Alianza Lima must rediscover its road form in Chosica against Juan Pablo II

Eighteen points from twenty seven in the Apertura. Three from nine so far in the Clausura. That contrast explains much of the headache Pablo Guede is dealing with at Alianza Lima, and also why the Lima club arrives in Chosica needing to win, not just compete.

The numbers don't lie: in the previous short tournament, Alianza was the best road team in the entire Liga1, an uncomfortable, solid side that picked up points where others dropped them. In the Clausura, though, that identity has faded. And now, four points behind leaders Deportivo Garcilaso and Universitario, every away trip starts to weigh more than it should.

The blow landed at a delicate moment, too: Alianza lost its unbeaten home record in this Liga1 precisely against Juan Pablo II, the same team it now faces, this time on the road. "Pedacito de Cielo" is no easy out this Clausura: the club dreams of reaching CONMEBOL Sudamericana qualification territory and arrives riding the momentum of that recent result against the blanquiazules.

Without Guerrero, eyes on the bigger goal

Guede won't be able to count on Paolo Guerrero, who is injured and not expected back until after the FIFA date. It's a costly absence for a team that needs goals away from home, something it hasn't managed with the same punch it showed last tournament.

What's at stake is significant. Alianza Lima has a real shot at being crowned national champion without having to play a final, something only achieved by piling up points consistently, especially away from Matute. And the schedule offers no relief: after Juan Pablo II come tough road trips to Cusco FC, CD Moquegua, Sporting Cristal and Chankas CYC, three of them rivals also fighting for the Clausura title or a spot in international competition.

That's why this Sunday works almost like a test of identity: rediscover in Chosica that road form that paid off so well in the Apertura, or resign themselves to watching the leaders' advantage keep growing.

When Juan Pablo II play Alianza Lima

The match will be played on Sunday, September 6 at 3:00 p.m. (Peru time), broadcast live on Liga 1 Max.