Millonarios faced Deportivo Pasto on February 1, 2025, at the Estadio Departamental Libertad, marking their official debut in the Liga Betplay 2025-I after their first match was postponed due to violent incidents. The team, led by coach David González, looked to secure their first points of the tournament against a Deportivo Pasto side eager to bounce back after falling to Deportes Tolima.
Deportivo Pasto, managed by Camilo Ayala, made several changes to their starting lineup following their recent defeat. Among the switching players, Juan Franco was replaced by Israel Alba at right back, with Luis Caicedo taking the place of Ritacco as they switched to a double pivot formation alongside Charrupí and Johan Caicedo.
On the other hand, Millonarios fielded Álvaro Montero as goalkeeper, supported by Danovis Banguero, Juan Pablo Vargas, and Sergio Mosquera in defense, and Daniel Cataño, Juan Carlos Pereira, and Stiven Vega taking midfield roles. The attacking trio consisted of Daniel Mantilla, Daniel Ruiz, and Leonardo Castro.
After suffering through violent events on their way to the previous venue, Millonarios was anxious to begin their season positively. A few days prior, their bus had been attacked at the Estadio Sierra Nevada, preventing them from participating. The club's management and supporters hoped for the team to showcase resilience and determination against Pasto.
Kick-off was scheduled for 5:10 PM local time, with fans encouraged to follow the match on Win Sports + and Antena 2. This was more than just another game; it represented resilience for both teams starting on the path to recovery this season.
Historically, Millonarios has had the upper hand over Pasto. Since 2007, the teams have met 39 times, with the blue team securing 18 victories, against 11 for Pasto and 10 matches ending as draws. Notably, Millonarios is also leading the scoring record with 53 goals compared to Pasto’s 39.
Recent matches reflect this historical dominance, with the last game held on December 8, 2024, ending goalless. The last time Deportivo Pasto managed to defeat Millonarios at home was back in 2019.
Throughout the first half, Millonarios controlled the game well. The opening goal came at the 16-minute mark, thanks to Leonado Castro's skillful finish after capitalizing on Daniel Mantilla's assist. Castro’s efforts nearly doubled soon after as another shot rattled the post—demonstrativ of their attacking intent.
This match had all the elements of excitement wrapped within its backstory: the anticipation of Millonarios’ first league appearance and the home side's need for redemption. Indeed, it was expected to be quite the enthralling clash as both teams aimed to ignite their campaigns with fervor.