In a tactical and intense match, América de Cali secured a crucial 0-0 draw against Bahia in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana playoff round for the round of 16, played this Tuesday at the stadium in Salvador, Brazil. The Colombian side withstood the home team's pressure and will now look to seal their qualification in the return leg next week in Cali.

Solid defense and missed chances

The Brazilian team dominated the match from the start but ran into a well-organized defense, led by Colombian fullback Mateo Castillo, who stood out for consistently stopping attacking plays. Despite creating several dangerous chances through Michel Araújo, Rodrigo Nestor, and Cauly, Bahia couldn't convert. Even a potential penalty early in the match was overturned by VAR after a handball by Castillo was dismissed.

América, aware of its limitations, focused on a defensive approach and quick counterattacks. Their best opportunity came in the 21st minute, but Joel Romero’s effort lacked power. The standout performer for the visitors was veteran goalkeeper and captain Jorge Soto, who was key in keeping a clean sheet, especially in the second half when Bahia intensified their attacks with the introduction of Kayky and Everton Ribeiro.

Red cards and a tense finish

Tension escalated towards the end of the match. Mateo Castillo had to be substituted due to a hard tackle, which gave more space for Erick Pulga to push forward. However, América's defense remained firm, and Soto kept his goal untouched.

In the final minute of regular time, VAR intervened again, leading to the sending-off of Everton Ribeiro for elbowing José Cavadía in the box. Moments later, Cavadía himself was shown a red card during stoppage time, leaving both teams with ten men for the final moments.

With the goalless draw, América de Cali now holds the advantage of having avoided conceding an away goal and will move on to the next round with a win by any scoreline in the return leg in Cali, where Fluminense awaits in the round of 16. Meanwhile, Bahia will need to go all out for victory on Colombian soil to stay alive in the tournament.

This matchup is set for a dramatic and decisive showdown in the heart of Cali.