América de Cali advances to the group stage of the 2025 CONMEBOL Sudamericana

In a thrilling match, the Red Devils secured the final Colombian spot in the Copa Libertadores. After a 2-2 draw at the Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez, América won 4-3 in the penalty shootout, guaranteeing their place in the group stage of the international tournament.

The excitement didn't take long to arrive. Just seven minutes in, Luis Ramos was brought down in the box. Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio reviewed the play using VAR and awarded a penalty to Independiente. Juan Fernando Quintero took the ball, but his shot was saved by Uruguayan goalkeeper Santiago Melé .

The Valle del Cauca team continued to press. In the 23rd minute, Duván Vergara tried his luck with a low shot that ended up in Mele's hands. Ten minutes later, Luis Ramos troubled the Barranquilla goalkeeper with a shot that resulted in a corner kick.

The goal finally came in the 38th minute. Vergara sent in a precise cross from the left wing, and Jan Lucumí appeared in the box with a powerful header to make it 0-1. Shortly before halftime, Vergara and Quintero exchanged a perfect one-two that left the number 11 with a clear shot on goal. With a first-time touch, Vergara increased the lead, and América went into the break with a 0-2 advantage.

In the second half, Junior rallied and managed to equalize. In the 54th minute, Carlos Bacca assisted Guillermo Paiva, who finished first-time to pull one back for the home side. Then, in the 71st minute, the Paraguayan rose highest and headed home the equalizer, making it 2-2.

The match went to penalties, where Jorge Soto became the hero. The América de Cali goalkeeper saved two penalties and, with impressive composure, converted his own. With a 4-3 victory in the shootout, América de Cali secured their place in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana group stage.

The team led by Jorge Da Silva will find out who their rivals are on March 17, when the draw takes place.