Deportivo Cali Edges Real Santander 2-1 in Copa BetPlay DIMAYOR Thriller

Deportivo Cali secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Real Santander in the Colombian Copa BetPlay DIMAYOR on May 25, 2026. The match, held at the Estadio de la Independencia in Bucaramanga, saw the visitors come from behind to claim a vital win in the cup competition.

Match Overview

Real Santander surprised Deportivo Cali by taking the lead in the 12th minute through a header from Andrés Martínez following a corner kick. The home side’s early energy put Cali on the back foot, but the experienced visitors slowly regained composure. Deportivo Cali equalized in the 39th minute when winger Yerson Candelo converted a penalty after a handball in the box. The second half belonged to Cali, and they took the lead in the 68th minute through a brilliant solo effort by Teófilo Gutiérrez.

Key Moments

• 12' – Andrés Martínez scores for Real Santander from a set piece.
• 39' – Yerson Candelo equalizes from the penalty spot for Deportivo Cali.
• 68' – Teófilo Gutiérrez weaves through the defense and scores a stunning individual goal.
• 83' – Real Santander’s shot is cleared off the line, preserving Cali’s lead.

Tactical Story

Real Santander employed a compact 4-4-1-1, aiming to frustrate Cali and hit on the break. Their early goal came from a set piece, a clear tactic. Deportivo Cali, playing a 4-2-3-1, gradually took control of possession after the equalizer. They shifted the ball quickly from side to side, pulling the Santander defense out of shape. Gutiérrez’s winner showcased his individual quality, capitalizing on a momentary lapse in concentration.

Standout Player

Veteran forward Teófilo Gutiérrez proved his enduring class with a Man of the Match display. His goal was a moment of magic, but his hold-up play and link-up with midfielders were equally important. He created three chances and completed the most dribbles in the match.

Cup Context

Deportivo Cali’s win puts them in a strong position to advance in the Copa BetPlay, while Real Santander will be left to regret missed opportunities. The cup provides an important avenue for teams like Santander to gain national exposure, but Cali’s experience and depth proved decisive on the night.