In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio Atanasio Girardot, Independiente Medellín turned around a 1-0 deficit to eventually secure a 2-1 victory over América de Cali. The standout performer was defender José Ortiz, who scored both of Medellín’s goals, showcasing remarkable aerial prowess.
The match commenced with América taking the lead through Yeison Guzmán, who found the net in the 24th minute. However, Medellín responded impressively as Ortiz netted twice, first in the 83rd minute and then again in the 88th, sealing the win with an agonic strike.
A missed opportunity for Medellín came just minutes earlier when Hayen Palacios struck the post in the 52nd minute, denying them an immediate equalizer.
Ortiz’s performance not only included his two goals but also strong defensive contributions, as he cleared three balls out of the danger zone. Midfielder Daniel Cataño also made his mark with three shots on goal during the match.
Darwin Machís raised the spirits of the fans in the first half when he executed an impressive nutmeg on Baldomero Perlaza in the 22nd minute.
Coach Alejandro Restrepo set his team in a 4-5-1 formation, with key players including Salvador Ichazo in goal and a solid backline composed of Leyser Chaverra, Kevin Mantilla, Daniel Londoño, and Frank Fabra. The midfield featured Baldomero Perlaza, Halam Loboa, Hayen Palacios, Diego Moreno, and Francisco Chaverra, while John Montaño spearheaded the attack.
On the opposing side, manager David González opted for a similar 4-5-1 formation, placing Jean Fernandes in goal and a defensive line consisting of Mateo Castillo, Marlon Torres, Andrés Mosquera, and Omar Bertel. The midfield boasted names like Rafael Carrascal, Josen Escobar, Jan Lucumi, Yeison Guzmán, and Darwin Machís, with Jorge Daniel Valencia leading the frontline.
José Ortiz Novoa officiated the match, adding to the excitement in Medellín’s home ground.
Looking ahead, Independiente Medellín will host Boyacá Chicó in their next clash, while América de Cali will travel to face Fortaleza FC.
This victory places Independiente Medellín at 16 points in the league, occupying 14th place, while América de Cali stands at 21 points in 6th position.
Substitutions for Independiente Medellín
35’ 1T – Kevin Mantilla was replaced by José Ortiz
45’ 2T – Halam Loboa was substituted for Enzo Larrosa
60’ 2T – Hayen Palacios made way for Daniel Cataño
83’ 2T – Leyser Chaverra and Diego Moreno were replaced by Esneyder Mena and Yony González respectively.
Yellow card for Independiente Medellín:
15’ 2T Hayen Palacios (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for América de Cali
63’ 2T – Jorge Daniel Valencia was substituted by Yojan Garcés and Darwin Machís by Jhon Palacios
85’ 2T – Omar Bertel left the pitch for Marcos Mina and Jan Lucumi for Joel Romero
92’ 2T – Josen Escobar was replaced by Adrián Ramos.
Yellow cards for América de Cali:
1’ 2T Rafael Carrascal (Insulting or disregarding the referee), 30’ 2T Josen Escobar (Time-wasting) and 32’ 2T Marlon Torres (Insulting or disregarding the referee).