Central American Cup on The Rise: Alajuelense’s Aaron Suarez

MIAMI, Florida – Aaron Suarez of Alajuelense continues to showcase his talent as one of the most promising young players in the Concacaf region.

The 21-year-old midfielder played a crucial role in Alajuelense’s successful campaign in the 2023 Concacaf Central American Cup. He scored two goals in the quarterfinals against Cartagines, helping his team secure a 6-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the semifinals.

Suarez’s impressive performance in the quarterfinals earned him the title of “The Rise” player for that round in the 2023 Central American Cup.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be recognized in this way. I feel proud and happy with my club and teammates, and I believe it translates to my performance on the field. Despite being a midfielder, I have managed to score multiple goals, and that brings me great satisfaction. However, I aim for even more,” Suarez expressed in an interview with Concacaf.com.

Exceling in important Concacaf matches has become a trademark for Suarez. In the previous season’s 2022 Concacaf League Final second leg against Olimpia of Honduras, he scored a goal that not only helped his team but also earned him the title of Best Young Player of the tournament.

Scoring on such a grand stage, like the Concacaf final, remains one of Suarez’s fondest memories.

“It was an incredible feeling because it gave us an advantage at that crucial moment. After losing the first leg in Honduras, scoring that free kick and celebrating with my teammates was truly wonderful. It boosted my confidence and ignited a desire to achieve even more,” Suarez shared.

“Scoring a goal in a Concacaf game is an indescribable feeling of pure joy and happiness. Being able to do it against Cartagines and LAFC in the Champions Cup last year was a unique experience. It’s a special feeling to score in an international tournament,” Suarez added.

Alajuelense’s dominating performance in the quarterfinals against Cartagines secured their sixth consecutive victory in the tournament. This triumph can be attributed to the strong unity within the club, according to Suarez.

“I believe our success stems from the unity within the team. We have an excellent bond, both in the domestic league and Concacaf matches. We approach every game with the intention to win. So far, we have won all six matches. However, we are taking it step by step, one game at a time. The upcoming semifinal against Herediano is crucial, and we are fully focused on it,” Suarez revealed.

Next up, Alajuelense will face Herediano in the semifinals. As rivals from the same domestic league, both teams are familiar with each other, making for an intense and thrilling matchup, according to Suarez.

“The semifinal is an eagerly anticipated fixture for me and my teammates. It will be a closely fought contest, as Herediano is a formidable team. We have a deep understanding of each other’s playing style. It will be an exciting series, and may the best team emerge victorious. Hopefully, we prove to be the stronger side in each game,” Suarez commented.

Aside from securing a place in the final four of the tournament, Alajuelense’s quarterfinal victory also guarantees them a spot in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup. This marks their second consecutive appearance among the top clubs in the Concacaf region.

“Qualifying for the Champions Cup is extremely important for us. As Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, we strive to compete in prestigious tournaments and make an impact internationally. Winning the series was crucial for us, and now we eagerly await the opportunity to play against teams from MLS and Mexico, fully utilizing this experience,” Suarez concluded.