Once Caldas took an important step in their Copa Sudamericana campaign by defeating Huracán 1-0 at the Palogrande Stadium in Manizales in the first leg of the round of 16. The only goal of the match came from the penalty spot, courtesy of Dayro Moreno, who became the hero of the night by beating goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez, the standout player for the Argentine side thanks to his multiple saves.

Once Caldas Takes the Lead with Dayro Moreno’s Goal Against Huracán

From the outset, the Colombian team showed their ambition, pressing high and creating constant problems for the visiting defense. Winger Michael Barrios was a nightmare for full-back César Ibáñez, producing up to three one-on-one chances that forced Galíndez to shine with decisive saves. A header from Kevin Cuesta and a long-range effort from Dayro Moreno also tested the Ecuadorian goalkeeper.

For their part, Huracán struggled with the physical toll of playing at 2,150 meters above sea level in Manizales. Their offensive contribution in the first half was limited to a tame shot from Juan Francisco Bisanz and an isolated play from Matías Tissera that did not trouble goalkeeper James Aguirre.

In the second half, coach Frank Darío Kudelka sought more attacking depth by bringing on Luciano Giménez and Gabriel Alanís. However, just as the Argentine side began to settle, a solo run from Mateo Zuleta ended with a through ball to Barrios, who was brought down in the box by Ibáñez. Referee Ramón Abatti pointed to the spot, and Dayro Moreno made no mistake, sending Galíndez the wrong way to put the home side ahead 1-0 in the 57th minute.

Trailing on the scoreboard, the “Globo” pushed forward and came close with a shot from Giménez that Aguirre saved, but their reaction was short-lived. The Manizales side regained control and nearly extended their lead with efforts from Mateo García, Felipe Gómez, and Jefry Zapata, only to be denied again by an inspired Galíndez.

The second leg will take place on Tuesday, August 19, at the Tomás Adolfo Ducó Stadium in Buenos Aires. The winner of this tie will face the victor of the clash between Independiente del Valle and Mushuc Runa in the quarterfinals.