America de Cali draws in the first leg of the Copa semifinals

The Scarlet team embarked on a mission in Bucaramanga and returned to Cali with a draw, leaving the series open and exciting. At the Américo Montanini stadium, Leopards and Red Devils played an intense match that ended 1-1, promising excitement for the next chapter at the Pascual Guerrero stadium .

The match began with Bucaramanga coming out strong, spurred on by their fans, and determined to defend their home turf. For the first 25 minutes, the home side relentlessly attacked the América penalty area, but the Scarlet defense, led by crucial saves from goalkeeper Jorge Soto, held firm. Soto became an impenetrable wall, thwarting every attempt by the Leopards and forcing América to retreat and wait for their opportunity.

The Red team's response was swift. In the 26th minute, Duván Vergara tried his luck from outside the box, and although the ball rebounded off the crossbar after a slight touch from Aldair Quintana, it was a clear warning that América had arrived to compete. The pressure continued, and in the 37th minute, Vergara again rattled the home goal with a shot that once more crashed against the post.

However, América had something special in store for the end of the first half. In the 40th minute, Cristian Barrios set up Yerson Candel , who sent a cross into the heart of the penalty area. After a series of rebounds, Alexis Zapata found the ball and sent it into the back of the net, silencing the home fans. The first half ended with the visitors in the lead, a reflection of their ability to withstand pressure and attack at the right moment.

The second half began with América looking to extend their lead. In the 49th minute, Duván Vergara took a corner kick that found Daniel Bocanegra, but the defender's shot went just wide.

Just when América seemed to have the game under control, Bucaramanga found the equalizer. In the 77th minute, a free kick taken by Fabián Sambueza was met by Fabry Castro, who connected with a first-time shot inside the box to level the score. It was an unexpected blow for América, who didn't give up and had another clear chance in the 88th minute, when Jader Quiñones evaded a defender and unleashed a powerful shot that grazed the post.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving everything to be decided at the Pascual Guerrero stadium . Now, the Red Devils have the opportunity at home to secure their place in the final.

This Sunday, November 3, the Reds return to Sanfernandino to host Deportivo Cali, for matchday 16 of the BetPlay League 2024-II.