Deportivo Cali secured a vital three points on Saturday, overcoming Independiente Medellín with a clinical 3-1 victory at the Estadio Deportivo Cali. After a disappointing opening-day loss, the “Azucareros” found their offensive rhythm, utilizing their home advantage to overwhelm a resilient but ultimately outmatched Medellín side. The win marks a significant turning point for manager Alberto Gamero, as his squad showed the attacking fluidity many expected at the start of the 2026 Apertura.
Match recap
The contest opened with Deportivo Cali asserting dominance early, though it took a penalty to finally break the deadlock. In the 37th minute, Avilés Hurtado stepped up to convert from the spot, giving the hosts a deserved 1-0 lead going into the break. While Medellín remained dangerous on the counter, the Cali backline held firm through a physical first half that saw several cautions, including a booking for Emanuel Reynoso for a tactical foul just before the whistle.
Cali doubled their advantage in the 64th minute when Steven Rodríguez finished a well-worked team move, putting the hosts firmly in control. Medellín did manage to claw one back in the 74th minute through Gerónimo Mancilla, briefly setting up a tense finale. However, the “Azucareros” put the game to rest in the 82nd minute as Johan Martínez found the net to seal the 3-1 result. The victory moves Cali up the table, while Medellín leaves Palmira searching for answers after their second consecutive loss.
Reynoso’s performance
Reynoso, the former Minnesota United star, was the primary architect of Cali’s creative play during the opening 45 minutes. Operating as a traditional “number 10,” Reynoso dictated the pace and was heavily involved in the buildup that led to the first-half penalty.
- Playmaking hub: Reynoso was at the center of every attacking transition, consistently finding his teammates with incisive passes. His vision helped Cali bypass Medellín’s midfield press throughout the first half, creating multiple dangerous looks for Hurtado and Dinenno.
- Tactical discipline: A high-intensity half saw “Rey” pick up a yellow card in stoppage time (45+4′) for a tactical foul to stop a potential counter-attack.
- Early exit: To avoid any risk of a second yellow, manager Alberto Gamero opted to sub Reynoso off at halftime for Daniel Giraldo. The move allowed Cali to tighten up defensively for the second period while protecting their lead.
Stats
- Minutes played: 45′
- Goals: 0
- Key passes: 3
- Pass accuracy: 84%
- Yellow cards: 1 (45+4′)
Up next
Deportivo Cali will look to carry this momentum on the road as they face Once Caldas on Wednesday, Jan. 28. Meanwhile, Independiente Medellín returns to the Atanasio Girardot on Thursday, Jan. 29, for a crucial home match against Boyacá Chicó.
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