América de Cali Prepares for Crucial Matches Amid Player Health Concerns

CALIFORNIA, Colombia — América de Cali is gearing up for critical matches in the Liga Betplay as they aim for a spot in the semifinals. The team will face Unión Magdalena on November 9, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 6:20 PM COL at the Olímpico Pascual Guerrero Stadium.

Assistant coach Alex Escobar emphasized the importance of winning, stating, “The team has persevered through difficulties. America is focused on securing a top-eight finish. We must consolidate in the two matches remaining. The goal is to reach the final of Colombian football.”

Despite their determination, América will play without key midfielder Josen Escobar. He was recently discharged from Clínica Sebastián de Belalcázar, where he was hospitalized due to a severe viral infection.

Escobar received eight days of medical leave and will miss upcoming matches, including the one against Unión Magdalena, which could have significant impacts on America’s standings. He was identified as a critical player in midfield this season, having helped the team climb to the eighth position with 26 points.

América recently secured a 2-0 victory against Boyacá Chicó, thanks to goals from Cadavia and Borrero. This win reflects their competitive spirit and commitment to bounce back after a setback in the Copa Colombia semifinals against Atlético Nacional.

In contrast, Unión Magdalena arrives at the match with nothing to lose as they have been eliminated from the competition. However, forward player Juan Fernando Quintero aims to leave his mark in the final matches, having already scored seven goals this season.

Coach David González may rely on José Cavadía as Escobar’s replacement, alongside alternatives like Sebastián Navarro and Luis Paz. With the team presently sitting in 11th place in the league, securing a win could propel them back into the top eight.

America’s focus remains on both advancing in the league and overcoming the steep challenge presented by Nacional in the Copa Colombia, with crucial matches ahead. “We are determined to salvage our season,” Escobar noted, stressing the dual pressures the team faces.