Manta lost 0-2 to Leones del Norte in the Liga Pro regular season, round 25, on Friday evening at Estadio Hoykai. The visitors finished strong after going behind early, with Rubén Borja scoring both goals in stoppage time to complete the turnaround.
E. Griffa opened the scoring in the 17th minute, putting Manta ahead and looking comfortable for most of the match. Segundo Portocarrero picked up a yellow card shortly after, and was substituted in the 40th minute as Manta tried to manage the lead. They controlled possession at 54 per cent and created more chances, but the game was far from settled.
Manta had a penalty awarded in the 72nd minute after a VAR check, but Juan Anangonó missed the spot-kick in the 74th minute. That felt like a turning point — the price had drifted away from them. Leones del Norte stayed compact, made more clearances and interceptions, and waited for their moment.
Borja struck in the 90th minute, then added another in 90+1 to complete a dramatic finish. Manta had 11 shots inside the penalty area and 3 on target, but only converted one early. Leones del Norte were more efficient with their 4 shots on target, and the clean-sheet run came to an end for the hosts.
Manta remain 16th with 20 points from 29 games, while Leones del Norte move into 8th place on 39 points. The result ended Manta's recent run of results and extended the visitors' ability to take points away from home when it matters.