Sekou Gassama Scores First Goal for Universitario in Friendly Victory Over LDU
Lima, Peru – Sekou Gassama, the Senegalese forward, finally broke through with his first goal for Universitario de Deportes, netting the decisive strike in a 2-1 friendly victory over Liga Deportiva Universitaria (LDU) on Saturday, March 28th, at the Estadio Monumental in Ate, Peru. The goal comes as a welcome boost for Gassama, who has faced challenges adapting to the Peruvian league since his arrival.
The match, played behind closed doors, served as valuable preparation for Universitario ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures, including the highly anticipated clásico against Alianza Lima on April 4th and their Copa Libertadores debut on April 7th in Ibagué, Colombia. [1]
Gassama’s Breakthrough Moment
The goal arrived in the 76th minute, breaking a deadlock after Matías Di Benedetto had equalized for Universitario earlier in the match. Andy Polo delivered a well-placed cross from the right flank, which Gassama controlled skillfully despite pressure from three LDU defenders. He then unleashed a powerful, accurate shot to beat the Ecuadorian goalkeeper. [4]
Sekou Gassama celebrates his first goal for Universitario against LDU. (Universitario)
Di Benedetto had opened the scoring for Universitario earlier in the match, heading home a corner kick from Edison Flores. LDU equalized before Gassama’s winner. [4]
A Confidence Booster Ahead of Key Matches
Gassama’s goal is particularly significant given his recent struggles for consistent playing time and a lack of goals since joining Universitario. The Senegalese international has been hampered by injuries and a period of adjustment to the Peruvian league. [1] This strike provides a much-needed confidence boost as Universitario prepares for a demanding schedule.
The friendly against LDU allowed coach Guillermo Salas to experiment with different lineups and supply playing time to various squad members, including Gassama. The goal demonstrates the potential the forward possesses and could earn him a more prominent role in the team’s upcoming matches. [1]
Sekou Gassama joined Universitario de Deportes in 2026, bringing with him a diverse career that includes stints in Spain and Cyprus. Prior to joining the Peruvian side, Gassama played for Anorthosis Famagusta in Cyprus, where he scored 9 goals in 26 appearances. [2] His journey also includes time with USM Alger and Eldense. [2]
What’s Next for Universitario?
Universitario will now turn their attention to the upcoming clásico against Alianza Lima on April 4th. This match is always a highly charged affair, and a win would be a significant morale booster for the team. Following the clásico, Universitario will initiate their Copa Libertadores campaign with an away match against Atlético Nacional in Ibagué, Colombia, on April 7th. [4]
The team will be looking to build on the positive momentum from the friendly victory over LDU and carry that form into these crucial matches. Gassama’s goal will undoubtedly provide a spark, and fans will be hoping to observe him continue to find the back of the net in the weeks to come. [4]
For Gassama, the goal represents a turning point. After a difficult start to his time at Universitario, he has finally delivered a moment of magic, offering a glimpse of the talent that persuaded the club to bring him to Lima. [1]
The Universitario faithful will be eager to see if this is the start of a prolific run for ‘La Pantera’ as they navigate a challenging schedule in both domestic and continental competitions.
What do you think about Sekou Gassama’s goal? Let us know in the comments below!
Keep reading
