Atlético Bucaramanga started their 2026 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Millonarios FC this evening at the Estadio Américo Montanini. Despite a debut appearance from former Loon standout Darwin Quintero, the Ambassadors were unable to hold onto an early lead, eventually falling to a quick-fire second-half comeback from the hosts.
Match summary
The first half was largely dominated by the Leopards, who nearly took the lead in the 35th minute when Martín Rea saw a powerful header crash against the woodwork. However, it was Millonarios who struck first against the run of play. In the 41st minute, a dangerous cross from Rodrigo Contreras found Stiven Vega in the six-yard box; his header deflected off Leonardo Flores and into the back of the net for an own goal, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead at the break.
The second half saw a spirited response from the home side. In the 60th minute, Leonardo Flores redeemed himself with a brilliant strike from outside the box that clipped the post on its way in to level the score. Just five minutes later, Luciano Pons capitalized on a defensive scramble following a free kick, diving to head home the rebound and securing the 2-1 win for Bucaramanga.
Quintero’s performance
Making his highly anticipated competitive debut for Millonarios, Darwin Quintero was named in the starting XI by manager Hernán Torres. Operating in a creative role behind the strikers, the Savant showed flashes of the vision and flair that made him a legend in the MLS.
- Creative spark: Quintero was the primary engine for the Millonarios attack in the first half, nearly recording an assist in the 15th minute with a pinpoint through ball that was cleared at the last second.
- Veteran leadership: As the game grew more physical in the second half, Quintero was frequently seen directing play and dropping deep to help his side retain possession.
- Match stats: Quintero played 78 minutes before being substituted for Beckham Castro as Millonarios looked for fresh legs to chase the equalizer. He finished the night with an 82% pass completion rate and created two scoring chances.
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