America won at home and qualified for the CONMEBOL Sudamericana 2025

On a sunny afternoon at Pascual Guerrero Stadium, América de Cali secured their place in international tournaments after defeating Junior de Barranquilla 1-0. Jorge Da Silva 's team showed character to guarantee their participation in international competitions.

From the opening whistle, the Red Devils took the initiative. Just eight minutes in, Alexis Zapata gave a warning with a powerful shot that grazed the goal defended by Santiago Mele. Three minutes later, Zapata provided the assist, delivering a pinpoint free kick. Andrés Mosquera , solid in the air, connected with a lethal header to send the ball into the back of the net.

América didn't let up. Franco Leys tried his luck from distance in the 16th minute, while Adrián Ramos nearly extended the lead in the 24th minute, but a Chivas defender cleared his shot off the line. The first half ended with the home team showing their superiority, with another attempt from Zapata forcing Mele into a brilliant save in the 45th minute of stoppage time.

In the second half, Junior tried to respond, but the American defense remained solid. Duván Vergara , in his usual role as a game-changer, almost extended the lead in the 54th minute with a shot that Mele deflected for a corner. Towards the end of the match, Josen Escobar attempted to seal the victory with a shot that was deflected by a visiting defender and went out for another corner. There was no time for anything more at the Sanfernandino stadium.

Following this victory, Independiente del Valle will focus on the 2024 Copa BetPlay final, where they will face Atlético Nacional in a series that promises intense excitement. The first leg will be this Thursday, December 12, at the Atanasio Girardot stadium.