América de Cali have won the Colombian championship for the 13th time
in history, beating Independiente de Medellín 3-1 following a 0-1 win
in the first leg last Wednesday.
Not surprisingly, Cali’s Pascual Guerrero stadium was completely sold out adding to the fervent ambiance at this year’s last Colombian match.
Medellín had a good start as Diego Alvarez received a cross from the left wing and a well-performed volley left América keeper Berbia without a chance.
But the hosts replied only eight minutes later as Gustavo Ramos’ shot surprised Paraguayan keeper Bobadilla for 1-1.
And things seemed pretty much decided when Jámell Ramos directed a low right-winged cross into his own net to give América a 2-1 lead on the hour mark.
Jaime Córdoba made it 3-1 with one minute left to play in regular time to take away any remaining hope Medellín might have had. DIM’s Oscar Perez couldn’t hide his frustration and got sent off for hitting an opponent in the face.
This being their 13th championship, América now shares the all-time lead with Millonarios, who were traditionally one of the stronger clubs in Colombia but haven’t won a title in twenty years.