ALIANZA FC DEFIES ODDS WITH EPIC COMEBACK WIN OVER ATLÉTICO NACIONAL
Alianza Valledupar shocked the Colombian football world on February 23, 2025, by defeating reigning champions Atlético Nacional 3-2 at the Estadio Armando Maestre Pavajeau, marking their first victory of the Liga BetPlay season and ending Nacional's impressive 13-match unbeaten run.
The match began vigorously with Atlético Nacional taking control, showcasing their attacking prowess through Alfredo Morelos. Just 15 minutes in, Morelos, assisted by teammate Kevin Viveros, secured the first goal with a powerful strike from outside the box, sending the away fans—who packed the stands—into jubilation.
Initially, things looked grim for Alianza as Nacional seemed poised to dominate. The vibrant crowd witnessed their team pinning Alianza back, but the home side was not to be easily discouraged. Just before the half, the game turned dramatically. At the 35th minute, disaster struck for Nacional as their goalkeeper, Harlem Castillo, inadvertently scored an own goal following a rebound off the crossbar. The ball ricocheted off Castillo's back, leveling the score unexpectedly.
The equalizer fueled Alianza's confidence, and they took the lead shortly after. A penalty was awarded when Diego Mendoza was fouled inside the area by Camilo Cándido. Felipe Pardo stepped up to take the spot kick and calmly slotted it home, giving Alianza the lead just before halftime.
Despite trailing, Atlético Nacional came out with renewed determination for the second half. They controlled possession but struggled to break through Alianza's solid defense. The weather conditions and poor pitch contributed to their inability to capitalize on opportunities. Alianza, on the other hand, showed resilience.
Fresh legs helped turn the tide, and substitute Sergio Aponzá was instrumental. When he came off the bench, he wasted no time making his impact felt. Seven minutes after entering the game, Aponzá scored with a stunning strike, increasing Alianza’s lead to 3-1 and sending the local fans—many of whom wore green—into frenzied cheers.
Just when it appeared Alianza would ride comfortably to victory, Nacional responded with urgency. Kevin Viveros, who had been lively throughout, managed to close the gap by converting a chance from Marino Hinestroza’s assist at the 84th minute, making the score 3-2. Fans braced themselves for what could be a nerve-racking finish.
Despite Nacional's frantic efforts to find the equalizer, the clock ran out, and Alianza’s solid defense held firm. The final whistle blew, and Alianza celebrated their historic victory—one they had not tasted against Nacional, who had not lost since December 2, 2024.
Post-match, Alianza's coach, Hubert Bodhert, expressed his pride, stating, "We showed remarkable determination and resilience today. Our first win this season and against the reigning champions means everything to us." Meanwhile, Atlético Nacional's coach, Javier Gandolfi, acknowledged his team's struggles and the need for improvement following this disappointing defeat.
The victory is more than just points for Alianza; it revitalizes their league campaign, showcasing their potential. While Atlético Nacional aims to rebound and regain their prolific form, Alianza will look to build on this momentum as their next fixture approaches against Once Caldas.