The match saw the Diablos Rojos snatch three points as they faced the Tricolor at home. Though Once Caldas initially dominated the game, taking the lead just before halftime thanks to Jefry Zapata at the 45-minute mark, it was América de Cali who found their rhythm in the second half.
Just two minutes into the second half, Jhon Palacios equalized for América de Cali with a skillful finish following a cross from Cristian Barrios. This set the stage for a thrilling comeback as Cristian Barrios scored again in the 56th minute, ensuring the win for his team.
Barrios stood out as the star of the match, contributing significantly with one goal and five shots on target throughout the game, showcasing his talent and determination on the pitch.
On the other hand, Felipe Parra, the goalkeeper for Once Caldas, also displayed remarkable skill, managing to save 11 attempts on goal from the home side.
América de Cali’s coach, Alexander Escobar, implemented a strategic 4-3-3 formation with Joel Graterol in goal, supported by Mateo Castillo, Daniel Bocanegra, Jean Pestaña, and Omar Bertel in defense. The midfield consisted of Josen Escobar, Rafael Carrascal, and Sebastián Navarro, while the attacking trio included Cristian Barrios, Rodrigo Holgado, and Jan Lucumi.
For their part, Hernán Herrera’s team set out in a 4-5-1 formation, with Felipe Parra guarding the net and a defensive line comprising Efraín Navarro, Jorge Cardona, Jerson Malagón, and Juan Castaño. The midfield featured Juan Díaz, Juan Camilo García, Andrés Ibargüen, Esteban Beltrán, and Felipe Gomez, with Jefry Zapata leading the attack.
Referee Wilmar Montaño Guevara officiated the match, guiding a game that saw both teams through their paces.
Looking ahead, América de Cali will travel to face Pasto in their next fixture, while Once Caldas will play at home against Boyacá Chicó.
With this victory, América de Cali now sits with 10 points, positioned in seventeenth place. Conversely, Once Caldas remains on 13 points, placing them twelfth in the league standings.
Substitutions for América de Cali
45’ 2T – Jan Lucumi out for Jhon Palacios and Jorge Cardona out for Kevin Cuesta
72’ 2T – Rodrigo Holgado out for Luis Ramos
73’ 2T – Sebastián Navarro out for Jhon Murillo
78’ 2T – Mateo Castillo out for Adrián Ramos
87’ 2T – Cristian Barrios out for Cristian Tovar
Cautions for América de Cali:
41’ 2T Adrián Ramos
Substitutions for Once Caldas
17’ 1T – Juan Castaño out for Luis Palacios
60’ 2T – Juan Camilo García out for Robert Mejía and Jefry Zapata out for Dayro Moreno
61’ 2T – Felipe Gomez out for Mateo Zuleta
Cautions for Once Caldas:
27’ 2T Robert Mejía (Unsporting behavior), 41’ 2T Mateo Zuleta (Unsporting behavior), and 41’ 2T Dayro Moreno (Insulting or disapproving the referee)