Mender García and Medellín face fierce rival in Copa Colombia Final

The match

Independiente Medellín (DIM) vs. Atlético Nacional

  • Competition: Copa Colombia (Final)
  • Date: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025
  • Kickoff: 7 p.m. CST
  • Venue: Estadio Atanasio Girardot (Medellín, Colombia)  

How to watch in Minnesota

The rights to Colombian soccer in the United States are currently held by Fanatiz. You will likely need their “Front Row” subscription or a specific pay-per-view pass to watch the final.

Some matches may also appear on ViX+, Univision’s streaming service, but double-check the schedule closer to kickoff.

The significance

It doesn’t get bigger than this. This is El Clásico Paisa—the crosstown derby between Medellín’s two giants—played with a trophy on the line. The unique twist? Both teams call the Estadio Atanasio Girardot home, meaning the stadium will be split down the middle (or dominated by the designated “home” team’s supporters, depending on security protocols), creating one of the most intense atmospheres in South American football.  

For Independiente Medellín (DIM), this is a chance to claim bragging rights over their more decorated neighbors, Atlético Nacional. Tensions are always high when these two meet, but a cup final elevates the stakes to a fever pitch.

The Loon in focus: Mender García

  • MNUFC tenure: 2022–2023  
  • Role: Forward / Winger

Mender García arrived in Minnesota in 2022 as a “U22 Initiative” signing with high hopes. While his time in the Twin Cities was mixed—he scored a handful of goals but struggled to lock down a consistent starting spot—his work rate was never in question.  

After leaving MNUFC, García returned to his native Colombia in 2024 to join Independiente Medellín. Since his return, he has often been deployed as a second striker or wide forward, using his speed to exploit spaces in transition. A goal in a Clásico Paisa final would instantly make him a club legend and validate his move back home.  

Prediction

Derby finals are notoriously tight and cagey, often decided by a single mistake or a moment of brilliance. With the crowd noise deafening, expect a physical match with plenty of yellow cards. Mender García might come off the bench to use his pace against tired legs in the second half.

  • Independiente Medellín wins on penalties after a 1-1 draw.