In front of 23,791 Scarlet fans , Jorge Da Silva 's team drew 0-0 against Atlético Bucaramanga and the series was decided through a penalty shootout, where the Reds won 5-4.
Fueled by the relentless encouragement of their fans, América took to the pitch at Pascual Guerrero determined to secure qualification; however, from the opening whistle, the match was intense and hard-fought.
In the 17th minute, Argentinian Rodrigo Holgado had the first clear chance for the home side with a header that went wide. Just a minute later, Duván Vergara tried his luck with a low shot inside the area, but the ball went narrowly wide.
As the first half drew to a close, Holgado reappeared. He received a precise cross from Vergara and finished first-time, but the ball grazed the post. In stoppage time, Éder Álvarez Balanta scored with a header from a free kick, but the goal was disallowed for a controversial offside call against Brayan Medina.
In the second half, the Red Devils maintained the pressure in search of the goal that would seal their qualification, although opportunities were scarce. In the 72nd minute, Adrián Ramos took advantage of a rebound in the area and fired a shot with his left foot, but the ball deflected off a defender, resulting in a corner kick.
In the 85th minute, Daniel Bocanegra joined the attack with a dangerous header, but the Bucaramanga goalkeeper responded with a great save to keep his net clean. With no time left, the match went to penalties.
In the penalty shootout, Escarlata goalkeeper Jorge Soto became the star of the night. He not only saved a crucial penalty from Atlético Bucaramanga, but also bravely took the sixth penalty himself, unleashing euphoria at the Pascual Guerrero stadium.
With this victory, América de Cali secures its place in the Copa BetPlay final, where it will face Atlético Nacional. Dates and times will be confirmed by DIMAYOR.
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