TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras – A highly anticipated clash between rivals Olimpia and Real España kicked off today at the National Stadium in Tegucigalpa, marking matchday 16 of the Apertura 2025 National League of Honduras. Olimpia entered the match as league leader with 31 points, closely pursued by marathón, which recently reached 30 points after a 1-0 victory over Motagua. Real España held third place with 22 points, demonstrating strong form in the domestic championship.
Both teams are balancing league play with commitments to the Central American Cup, with second-leg semifinal matches on the horizon this week. Despite the international competition, todayS match carries notable weight for both sides as they strive to secure crucial points in the National League.
Olimpia’s starting eleven featured Edrick Menjívar, Clinton Bennett, Emanuel Hernández, Edwin Lobo, Carlos Sánchez; Marcos Montiel, Jorge Álvarez, Maynor Arzú, Kevin López, Dereck Moncada and Jerry Bengtson. Notably, young Clinton Bennett made his first start for Olimpia, having debuted the previous day against Juticalpa FC. Real España countered with Buba López, Maylor Núñez, Devron García, Wesly Decas, Darlin Mencía; Anfronit Tatum, Ángel Girón, Nixon Cruz, Carlos Mejía, Roberto Osorto and Gustavo Moura.
Jefferson Escobar was appointed as the match referee, supported by assistants jack Rodríguez and Juan Carlos Otero, with Melvin Daniel Matamoros serving as the fourth official.
