América de Cali 2–1 Real Cartagena: Red Devils Edge Past Second Division Rivals in Copa BetPlay

América de Cali booked their place in the next round of the Copa BetPlay DIMAYOR with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Real Cartagena at the Estadio Pascual Guerrero on 22 July 2026. Despite fielding a rotated lineup, the Primera A side showed enough quality to overcome a spirited challenge from the second-tier visitors.

Match Overview

The first half was a scrappy affair, with Real Cartagena sitting deep and looking to counter. América broke the deadlock just before half-time when winger Jhon Jader Durán cut inside and curled a shot into the far corner. The hosts doubled their lead early in the second half through a penalty converted by captain Carlos Sierra. Real Cartagena pulled one back with a stunning long-range strike from Jhonatan Pérez in the 78th minute, but América held on to secure a professional win.

Key Moments

• 43’ – América de Cali 1-0: Durán’s individual brilliance broke the deadlock after a period of frustration.
• 56’ – América de Cali 2-0: Sierra sent the goalkeeper the wrong way from the spot after a handball in the area.
• 78’ – Real Cartagena 2-1: Pérez unleashed a 25-yard rocket that gave América’s keeper no chance.

Standout Players

Jhon Jader Durán was the difference-maker for América, his dribbling and finishing a cut above the rest. Defensive midfielder Juan Camilo Portilla shielded the backline effectively, breaking up play and starting counter-attacks. For Real Cartagena, Jhonatan Pérez’s goal was a moment of quality that briefly threatened an upset.

Cup Context

The Copa BetPlay DIMAYOR is Colombia’s primary knockout competition, featuring clubs from both the Primera A and Primera B. América de Cali, as a traditional powerhouse, are expected to go deep, while Real Cartagena can take pride in a competitive display despite the loss.

What’s Next

América will await the draw for the round of 16, while Real Cartagena will refocus on their Primera B campaign, where they are vying for a promotion playoff spot. The match underlined the gap between the divisions but also highlighted the growing competitiveness of Colombian football.