América de Cali 2–1 Real Cartagena: Escarlatas Edge Past Cartagena in Copa BetPlay Clash

América de Cali secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over second-tier side Real Cartagena in the Copa BetPlay DIMAYOR on July 22, 2026, at the Estadio Olímpico Pascual Guerrero. The result sends the Escarlatas into the next round of Colombia's premier knockout competition, but not without a scare from the spirited visitors.

Match Overview

The match, played under clear skies in Cali, saw América de Cali dominate early possession. However, it was Real Cartagena who stunned the home crowd in the 12th minute when striker Jhonier Viveros latched onto a long ball and chipped the onrushing goalkeeper to give the visitors a shock lead. The goal silenced the stadium and forced América to rethink their approach.

América responded quickly. By the 20th minute, they had equalized through a well-worked set piece. A short corner found midfielder Luis Paz on the edge of the box, and his curling effort deflected off a defender and nestled into the far corner. The first half ended 1–1, with América pushing for a second goal but facing a resolute Cartagena defense.

Key Moments

• 12' – Real Cartagena goal: Viveros scores a brilliant solo goal on the counter. América defense caught out of position.
• 20' – América equalizer: Paz's deflected shot from a corner restores parity.
• 55' – América take the lead: Forward Adrián Ramos heads home from a pinpoint cross by left-back Nilson Castrillón. His 150th goal for the club.
• 70' – Missed penalty: Ramos sees his spot-kick saved by Cartagena goalkeeper Kevin Mier, keeping the score at 2–1.

Tactical Story

América de Cali manager Alexandre Guimarães opted for a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to stretch the Cartagena defense with width. However, the visitors packed the midfield and looked dangerous on the break. After taking the lead, América switched to a more controlled possession game, preventing Cartagena from finding any rhythm. The missed penalty could have been costly, but the defense held firm in the closing stages.

Real Cartagena, playing in the second division, showed great organization and bravery. Their game plan of soaking up pressure and hitting on the counter nearly paid off, but América's superior quality eventually told.

Standout Players

• Adrián Ramos (América de Cali): Scored the winning goal and was a constant menace. His experience proved decisive.
• Jhonier Viveros (Real Cartagena): Stunning goal and tireless running. A player to watch for the future.
• Kevin Mier (Real Cartagena): Made several excellent saves, including the penalty stop. Kept his side in the game.

Cup Context

The Copa BetPlay DIMAYOR is Colombia's primary domestic cup competition, offering its winner a spot in the CONMEBOL Libertadores. For América de Cali, a historically successful club in the competition (they have won it once, in 2022), advancing is crucial to adding silverware to their trophy cabinet. Real Cartagena's elimination will be a disappointment, but they can take pride in a valiant performance against a top-flight side.

América de Cali now await the draw for the round of 16, where they will face another opponent from either the Primera A or the second division. The win injected momentum into their season, as they also chase a strong finish in the league.