In a gripping encounter at the Estadio Metropolitano, Junior triumphed over Pereira with a final score of 3-2 in the 16th round of the Primera División. The standout performance from Steven Rodríguez, who scored twice, was crucial for the victory. Despite a challenging match, the team led by Alfredo Arias showcased their resolve and turned the tide, thanks to a penalty goal by Bryan Castrillón (11’ 2T) and Rodríguez’s efforts in the second half.
The match began with a scare for Junior when Darwin Quintero scored from the spot for Pereira at the 51st minute. However, Junior’s response was swift, with Rodríguez netting two goals just minutes apart (50’ and 53’ 2T), both from penalties.
Additionally, José Moya added to Pereira’s tally with a goal at the 76th minute, keeping the game competitive until the final whistle.
Early in the first half, Junior’s Yimmi Chará came close to scoring, hitting the woodwork within the opening minutes, which left the home crowd holding their breath.
Steven Rodríguez’s exceptional performance crowned him as the man of the match, registering not only his two goals but also creating several opportunities with his shots on goal. Bryan Castrillón also impressed with his performance, scoring one goal in the crucial match.
Alfredo Arias set up his side in a 4-4-2 formation with Mauro Silveira in goal, supported by Jhomier Guerrero, Javier Báez, Daniel Rivera, and Yeison Suárez in defense. The midfield comprised Didier Moreno, Guillermo Celis, Yimmi Chará, and Teófilo Gutiérrez, with José Enamorado and Guillermo Paiva leading the attack.
Pereira, directed by Rafael Dudamel, utilized a 4-5-1 formation featuring Salvador Ichazo in goal, supported by Walmer Pacheco, José Moya, Santiago Aguilar, and Edwin Velasco in defense. The midfield was composed of Juan Ríos, Víctor Mejía, Omar Albornoz, Yesus Cabrera, and Jhon Largacha, with Darwin Quintero as the lone striker.
Wilmar Roldán Pérez officiated the match, ensuring fair play throughout the encounter. Following this victory, Junior, with 31 points, sits atop the league table, while Pereira lingers in 13th place with 18 points.
Substitutions for Junior
45’ 2T – Teófilo Gutiérrez off for José Cuenú
53’ 2T – Guillermo Celis off for Bryan Castrillón
72’ 2T – Guillermo Paiva off for Steven Rodríguez and Yimmi Chará off for Carlos Esparragoza
79’ 2T – Javier Báez off for Edwin Herrera
Yellow Cards for Junior:
19’ 1T José Enamorado (Unsporting behavior), 24’ 1T Guillermo Celis (Unsporting behavior), 40’ 1T Mauro Silveira (Unsporting behavior), 16’ 2T José Cuenú (Unsporting behavior), 25’ 2T Guillermo Paiva (Unsporting behavior), and 44’ 2T Carlos Esparragoza (Unsporting behavior)
Red Card for Junior:
49’ 1T Daniel Rivera (Direct red)
Substitutions for Pereira
14’ 1T – Edwin Velasco off for Eber Moreno
73’ 2T – Omar Albornoz off for Samy Merheg
80’ 2T – Yesus Cabrera off for Kelvin Osorio and Jhon Largacha off for Jordy Monroy
Yellow Cards for Pereira:
16’ 2T José Moya (Unsporting behavior), 36’ 2T Juan Ríos (Unsporting behavior), and 46’ 2T Santiago Aguilar (Unsporting behavior)