César Farías, the Venezuelan coach of Barcelona Sporting Club, celebrated his 53rd birthday on March 7 with a significant victory over Emelec in the Clásico del Astillero. The match, an important fixture in Ecuador's football calendar, saw Farías's team secure a 1-0 win thanks to a solitary goal from Argentine striker Darío Benedetto. This victory not only marked a personal milestone for Farías but also continued Barcelona’s strong performance in the Liga Ecuabet 2026, enhancing their competitive edge early in the season.

In his post-match press conference, Farías reflected on the match and the challenges faced during it, indicating that his team came into the game after a strenuous encounter in Brazil against Botafogo. He noted the tactical adjustments he made during the match, transitioning from a 4-2-3-1 formation to a 4-3-3 to strengthen the team's midfield presence. While he acknowledged Emelec's competitive nature, he emphasized that they managed to control the game and secure the win, despite some intense moments where they were pushed back.

This victory not only boosts team morale and showcases Farías's coaching strategies but also adds to the historical rivalry between the two Guayaquil clubs, with this being their 238th meeting. It sets a positive tone for Barcelona's campaign as they move forward in the Liga Ecuabet, with fans and players alike celebrating both the win and Farías's special day.