Cuenca’s high ticket prices for the game against Neymar’s Santos spark controversy

Deportivo Cuenca set high prices for tickets for the match against Santos, by Copa Sul-Americana. The confrontation takes place at Estádio Alejandro Serrano Aguilar, at Cuenca, at Equador, on April 8, 2026, at 5 pm (local time). The presence of Neymar in the Brazilian team’s squad attracts special attention, which led the Ecuadorian club to adopt values ​​well above the average charged in local championship games. Torcedores locals express dissatisfaction with the significant difference compared to the usual LigaPro prices.

The Ecuadorian club returns to international competitions after a period of absence and seeks to take advantage of the opponent’s appeal to increase revenue. Tickets start at US$30 for the general sector and reach US$80 in the most privileged places, such as stages. Essa policy generated complaints among fans, who compare the prices with domestic matches, where even premium seats tend to be more affordable.

High prices attract attention

The values ​​announced by Deportivo Cuenca far exceed those practiced in Ecuadorian league clashes. Setores as a preference costs US$40, while the platform costs US$55 and stages cost US$80. Individual ticket sales are scheduled for the first few days of April.

Fans point out that, in normal local championship games, prices rarely exceed these levels, even for the most expensive seats. The club’s strategy aims to capitalize on the interest generated by the presence of Neymar and continental participation.

These are the prices for the party between Deportivo Cuenca vs

– General: $30
– Preferencia: $40
– Tribuna: $55
– Palco: $80pic.twitter.com/HnMxdUGKpR

— MrOFF (@MrOFFSIDER)March 23, 2026

Match and group context

The Deportivo Cuenca integrates the Grupo D of the Copa Sul-Americana, alongside the Santos, San Lorenzo (Argentina) and Recoleta (Paraguai). The Ecuadorian team faces challenges in away matches, with trips to Argentina, Brasil and Paraguay during the group stage.

The home debut against Santos represents an opportunity to score in front of the fans, but prices can influence the presence of the public. The club has already secured significant revenue from qualifying for the tournament, totaling almost US$900,000 to date.

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Continental return of the Ecuadorian club

Deportivo Cuenca returns to compete in South American competitions after years without a presence. The classification came after victory in the repechage against Libertad, with a packed stadium on that occasion. Agora, the focus is on preparing to welcome the Brazilian team.

The altitude of Cuenca, around 2,500 meters above sea level, may represent an additional factor in the game. Santos begins its campaign in the competition precisely in this scenario, which adds complexity to the visiting team’s planning.

Uncertainties about the presence of Neymar

Neymar’s participation in the match has not yet been confirmed. The player evaluates which commitments he will play with Santos, and there is already an indication that he will be absent from the team in some games at Brasil. The final decision directly impacts the interest of Ecuadorian fans.

The Brazilian club returns to the Copa Sul-Americana after years, with Neymar as the main attraction. The expectation surrounding the number 10 shirt increases the appeal of the confrontation, justifying, in the view of the Cuenca board, the differentiated prices adopted.

Revenue and audience expectations

Deportivo Cuenca accumulates significant gains from participating in the continental tournament. The prizes from Conmebol and the box office contribute to the club’s budget. However, high prices for this specific game may reduce stadium occupancy compared to previous matches.

The board seeks to balance revenue and fan support. The sale of bonuses for home games in the group stage has already opened, including this clash against Santos as one of the main attractions.