In a tense clash on matchday 10 of the first division, Fortaleza FC emerged victorious against La Equidad, clinching a 1-0 win thanks to Santiago Córdoba’s penalty goal in the 66th minute.
In the latter part of the second half, specifically at the 96-minute mark, Fortaleza FC’s defender Sebastián Valencia came agonizingly close to doubling the lead, striking the woodwork and leaving fans yearning for more celebrations.
Santiago Córdoba was undoubtedly the star of the match, delivering an outstanding performance with his decisive goal and three shots on target, showcasing his striking prowess.
Eduar Beltrán, the goalkeeper for La Equidad, put up a commendable fight against Fortaleza’s offense, making an impressive eight saves throughout the match.
Coach Sebastián Oliveros fielded a structured 4-5-1 formation for Fortaleza FC, featuring Cristian Santander in goal with a defensive line composed of Jonathan Marulanda, Yesid Díaz, Harold Balanta, and Sebastián Valencia. The midfield was manned by Leonardo Pico, Kevin Balanta, Andrés Arroyo, Andrés Ricaurte, and Santiago Cuero, while Santiago Córdoba spearheaded the attack.
On the other hand, La Equidad, guided by Diego Merino, opted for a 4-3-3 formation, with Eduar Beltrán defending the goal, supported by Yair Abonia, Daniel Rodas, Brayan Montaño, and Yulián Gómez in defense. The midfield trio of Juan Castilla, José Masllorens, and Jean Carlos Colorado aimed to control the game, while Jovanny Bolívar, Kevin Parra, and Samir Mayo led the offensive line.
The match, held at the Metropolitano de Techo stadium, was officiated by Luis Gracia Benítez.
Looking forward, Fortaleza FC will host América de Cali in their next fixture, while La Equidad is set to challenge Junior on their turf.
This victory elevates Fortaleza FC to a total of 18 points in the standings, positioning them third, whereas La Equidad remains with 10 points, languishing in fifteenth place.
Substitutions for Fortaleza FC
72’ 2T – Santiago Cuero replaced by Sebastián Ramírez; Kevin Balanta out for Andrés Amaya.
84’ 2T – Santiago Córdoba substituted for Kelvin Flórez.
88’ 2T – Andrés Ricaurte off for Jerónimo Velásquez; Andrés Arroyo replaced by Jhon Martínez.
Carded Players from Fortaleza FC:
14’ 2T – Yesid Díaz (Unsporting behavior); 23’ 2T – Kevin Balanta (Unsporting behavior).
Substitutions for La Equidad
60’ 2T – Jean Carlos Colorado replaced by Deyson Copete.
71’ 2T – Juan Castilla off for Manuel Mónaco; José Masllorens out for Fabian Chaverra.
Carded Players from La Equidad:
42’ 1T – Yair Abonia (Insulting or disapproving the referee); 2’ 2T – Jean Carlos Colorado (Unsporting behavior); 19’ 2T – Juan Castilla (Insulting or disapproving the referee); 41’ 2T – Deyson Copete (Reiteration of fouls); 42’ 2T – Daniel Rodas (Unsporting behavior).