At the Pascual Guerrero Stadium in Cali, Fluminense defeated América de Cali 2-1 in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana round of 16, securing a favorable result but leaving the tie open for the second leg in Brazil.

Fluminense capitalizes on early mistakes

The visitors quickly took the lead thanks to two defensive errors by the home side. At 7 minutes, an own goal by Yerson Candelo following a cross from Samuel Xavier put the Brazilians ahead, taking advantage of goalkeeper Jorge Soto’s lapse in concentration. Just eight minutes later, Uruguayan Agustín Canobbio sealed the 2-0 with a powerful shot, capitalizing on a poor clearance by the América defense.

Despite the early setback, América showed resilience and refused to give up. In the first half, players like Cristian Barrios and Peruvian Luis Ramos created chances, while defender Kevin Serna grew in prominence, especially with a run that was narrowly stopped by Cristian Tovar.

América’s comeback and an exciting finish

In the second half, the match became more intense and physical, with few opportunities for fluid play. Everaldo had a chance to extend Fluminense’s lead with a header from a good cross by Serna, but goalkeeper Jorge Soto made a great save to keep his team in the game. The introduction of Argentine striker Rodrigo Holgado and the speed of Barrios gave América new attacking impetus, although the Brazilian defense remained solid.

A long-range shot by Rafael Carrascal tested Fábio, who responded well to deny a goal. However, in stoppage time, Barrios found a moment of brilliance and scored to reduce the deficit, giving the home fans hope for the return leg.

The decisive match will take place on Tuesday, August 19 at the Maracanã Stadium, where both teams will battle for a place in the quarterfinals, where the winner of the tie between Central Córdoba and Lanús awaits.