Deportivo Cali drew 1-1 with América de Cali in a highly contentious match on March 24, 2025, at the Estadio Deportivo Cali, marking the tenth round of the Liga BetPlay 2025-I. The game was filled with drama and controversy, particularly surrounding the decisions made by referee Wilmar Roldán, which made a significant impact on both teams’ standings in the league.
In the early minutes of the match, América made a powerful start as Sebastián Navarro scored in the 5th minute. Navarro capitalized on a well-placed assist from Duván Vergara, netting a precise left-footed shot that sent a ripple of excitement through the traveling fans. However, just 11 minutes later, Deportivo Cali almost leveled the score when Jean Colorado’s head attempt from a Jarlan Barrera cross flew narrowly high.
The first half saw América grow in confidence, with Brayan Medina almost doubling the lead in the 16th minute; his shot within the box was deflected away by a defender, preventing what could have been a crucial second goal.
However, the game was unsettled by a series of controversial decisions by referee Roldán, who became the focal point of criticism throughout the match. The first instance came when a potential goal for América was nullified due to an earlier foul that viewers found difficult to discern. As América seemed poised to celebrate what would have been their second goal, Roldán’s decision to disallow it drew fiery responses from the players and fans alike, especially after replays showed the foul seemed minor.
In the second half, Deportivo Cali came out determined to change their fate, creating a series of chances to return to contention. Nguyen's pressure forced them to adopt a more aggressive approach, pushing forward frequently. The breakthrough for Cali came in the 70th minute when Andrey Estupiñán was awarded a penalty after being brought down by América’s defender Álvarez Balanta. Roldán was initially hesitant but, following a VAR review, he awarded the penalty, which Estupiñán converted, leveling the match at 1-1.
Even after the equalizer, the intensity did not abate. América pushed back hard, coming close to reclaiming the lead on several occasions, including a memorable counterattack led by Vergara, although he failed to finish as the tension and pressure of the situation bore down on him.
The discussions around the controversial calls did not cease with the final whistle, as post-match conversations featured players from América engaging with Roldán in the center circle, as they expressed their grievances regarding the officiating. The game ended with emotional appeals as players highlighted the need for clarity and consistency in officiating.
With this draw, Deportivo Cali remains outside the top eight in the standings, now sitting in ninth place with 15 points from 3 wins, 6 draws, and 1 loss. In contrast, América climbed to fourth position, having amassed 18 points from 5 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss. The outcome underscores the highly competitive nature of the Liga BetPlay this season.
In their next fixtures, Deportivo Cali will visit Deportivo Pasto, while América will host Boyacá Chicó, aiming to continue their push for the upper echelons of the table and secure spots in the forthcoming playoff rounds.
