América de Cali Draws Late with Independiente Medellín in Intense Match

CALI, Colombia — América de Cali salvaged a point with a last-minute equalizer against Independiente Medellín in their opening match of the Torneo Apertura on May 31.

In an intense game at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium, both teams created numerous scoring opportunities but struggled with finishing. The game was highlighted by a dramatic finish in which Rafael Carrascal equalized in the 90+4 minute after a mistake by Medellín’s goalkeeper.

Independiente Medellín had the upper hand for much of the match, with Brayan Léon Muñiz missing a one-on-one opportunity early on. Leyder Berrío and Muñiz came close to scoring, but their attempts went astray.

América de Cali’s Juan Fernando Quintero also had chances but was thwarted multiple times, first by a defender and later by Medellín’s goalkeeper, Aguerre.

Internally, América struggled defensively, a concern noted by coach Jorge Da Silva, who said, “The opponent arrived often and created many chances.” He will be without Quintero for upcoming matches due to a knee injury.

In contrast, Junior FC faced Deportes Tolima, ending their match in a 1-1 draw, leaving both teams eager for a win in their next outings. On June 4, América will host Atlético Junior while Medellín visits Deportes Tolima.