In this closely contested Serie A match, Deportivo Cuenca triumphed 1-0 over Barcelona Guayaquil, thanks to an early goal scored just over a minute into the game. This early goal proved to be the defining moment, dictating the tempo and psychological dynamics for the remainder of the match. Despite controlling significant stretches of play, Barcelona Guayaquil couldn't translate their advantage into goals, partly due to Cuenca's resolute defense and tactical discipline.

Barcelona Guayaquil's struggle to maintain discipline was evident through their accumulation of five yellow cards. This not only hampered their ability to press aggressively but also limited their tactical flexibility, constraining their midfield's playmaking capabilities. Their attempts to transition quickly were frequently disrupted, as they often had to play cautiously to avoid further sanctions, ultimately affecting their offensive efficacy.

Although Deportivo Cuenca had fewer corner kicks with 4, contrasting Barcelona Guayaquil's 8, their organization in defense was commendable. With only 6 fouls committed compared to Barcelona's 7, Cuenca managed to maintain a clean sheet by ensuring their defensive unit was cohesive and effectively closed down spaces. The Cuenca goalkeeper and backline exhibited excellent teamwork, allowing the hosts to neutralize multiple threats from set-pieces and open play.

In summary, the critical factor in Cuenca's narrow victory was their ability to capitalize on an early lead and their exceptional defensive performance. The host's tactical discipline and Barcelona's failure to convert their territorial and corner kick advantage played pivotal roles. This match illustrates how discipline and early momentum can decisively impact the outcome of a closely-fought contest.

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