Fortaleza FC faced off against Junior in a highly anticipated fixture on Saturday at the Metropolitano de Techo Stadium, with neither side managing to claim victory.
The match began dramatically for Junior as José Enamorado scored within the first minute, giving them an early lead. However, Fortaleza FC quickly regrouped and equalized just before halftime through Emilio Aristizábal, who found the net in the 46th minute.
Both teams had their chances, including a strike hitting the woodwork from both sides. Luis Escorcia and José Cuenú were left frustrated after missing out on what could have been a winning goal.
Emilio Aristizábal was undoubtedly the star of the match, scoring the equalizer for Fortaleza FC. Junior’s José Enamorado also showcased his talent by netting their opening goal.
The coaches had differing tactical approaches, with Sebastián Oliveros of Fortaleza FC opting for a 4-4-2 formation, featuring Jordan Garcia in goal, Cristian Mosquera, Yesid Díaz, Luis Escorcia, and Sebastián Valencia in defense, and a midfield that included Kelvin Flórez, Ronaldo Pájaro, Sebastián Ramírez, and Andrés Arroyo, supporting the forward duo of Andrés Ricaurte and Emilio Aristizábal.
On the other hand, Junior’s Alfredo Arias deployed a 4-3-3 strategy, with Mauro Silveira guarding the net, backed by Jhomier Guerrero, Javier Báez, José Cuenú, and Yeison Suárez in defense. Didier Moreno, Edwin Herrera, and Guillermo Celis formed the midfield trio, while José Enamorado, Bryan Castrillón, and Steven Rodríguez led the attacking front.
The match referee, José Ortiz Novoa, officiated the tense encounter.
Looking ahead, Fortaleza FC will travel to face U. Magdalena in their next match, while Junior will host At. Nacional at the Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez Stadium. With just one round remaining in the regular season, both teams are hopeful for a playoff spot.
Substitutions for Fortaleza FC
35’ 1H – Ronaldo Pájaro was replaced by Kevin Balanta
45’ 2H – Sebastián Ramírez made way for Jhoiner Salas and Steven Rodríguez was substituted for Daniel Rivera
66’ 2H – Andrés Arroyo was taken off for Andrés Amaya
79’ 2H – Sebastián Valencia came off for Santiago Cuero and Kelvin Flórez was replaced by Santiago Córdoba
Cautions for Fortaleza FC
18’ 1H – Ronaldo Pájaro (Unsporting behavior)
23’ 1H – Andrés Arroyo (Unsporting behavior)
45’ 1H – Sebastián Ramírez (Unsporting behavior)
6’ 2H – Sebastián Valencia (Unsporting behavior)
8’ 2H – Cristian Mosquera (Unsporting behavior)
43’ 2H – Yesid Díaz (Unsporting behavior)
45’ 2H – Jhoiner Salas (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for Junior
52’ 2H – Bryan Castrillón came off for Yimmi Chará
58’ 2H – José Enamorado was replaced by Guillermo Paiva
85’ 2H – Didier Moreno was substituted for Carlos Esparragoza
Cautions for Junior
21’ 1H – Steven Rodríguez (Unsporting behavior)
28’ 1H – José Enamorado (Unsporting behavior)
30’ 1H – José Cuenú (Unsporting behavior)
Sent Off for Junior
30’ 1H – José Cuenú (Straight red card)