Deportivo Pereira secured their first victory of the 2025 Liga BetPlay season with a commendable 2-0 win over Fortaleza CEIF on February 22, 2025, at the Estadio Hernán Ramírez Villegas. The match was particularly significant for Pereira, who has struggled for form, languishing at the bottom of the league table with just two points prior to this game.
The encounter started tumultuously for the home team, as Jorge Bermúdez received a red card just 17 minutes in for a foul on Ronaldo Pájaro. Despite being reduced to ten men early on, Pereira’s determination shone through. Facing their third consecutive loss, they turned the perceived disadvantage to their favor. Even after Bermúdez's dismissal, Pereira managed to maintain control of the match.
Fortaleza appeared to have the upper hand, starting the game aggressively, but it's Pereira who struck first. A penalty was awarded after goalkeeper Juan Castillo fouled José Moya inside the box. Yesus Cabrera stepped up and converted the penalty with precision, putting Pereira on the board at the 36-minute mark.
Just seven minutes later, the atmosphere at the stadium was electrified as Gianfranco Peña took advantage of glaring defensive misjudgment from Castillo. Easily dispossessing the ball from the scrambling Fortaleza keeper, Peña slotted home the second goal, doubling Pereira’s lead.
Despite the scoreline, Fortaleza pushed hard for a comeback, dominating possession during the second half and creating opportunities to score. Yet, Pereira's goalkeeper, Salvador Ichazo, emerged as the standout player, thwarting various attempts, including several close-range shots. His remarkable saves ensured Pereira held onto their lead.
After the final whistle, the atmosphere among Pereira’s fans was jubilant, marking the team’s first win and lifting them out of the relegation zone. This victory not only provided much-needed points but also represented hope for the struggling squad and the beleaguered coach Luis Fernando Suárez, who was under pressure due to the team's poor performances earlier this season. With this victory, Pereira climbed to the 14th position with five points, but the road ahead remains challenging.
Looking forward, Pereira faces tough opposition, with their next match scheduled against the formidable América de Cali. The team, bolstered by this recent success, aims to carry the momentum forward and continue their climb up the league standings.