Bauzá Scores Stunning Goal, Nacional Leads 1-0 Against El Verde

Atlético Nacional showcased its strength with a commanding 4-1 victory over América de Cali in the Copa BetPlay semifinals. The win places Nacional in a strong position, virtually securing their place in the finals. Notably, the team achieved this without three key players: William Tesillo, Jorman Campuzano, and Edwin Cardona. This highlights the team’s depth and resilience under coach Diego Arias.

Bauzá Scores Stunning Goal

The match took place at Atanasio Girardot Stadium, where fans were treated to a vibrant pre-game display featuring fireworks in green and white. Nacional began the match strongly, with a clear determination to set the pace. The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Juan Bauzá capitalized on a defensive error by Matheus Uribe, scoring a goal that marked the club’s 100th of the year. This goal was also Bauzá’s second of the season, showcasing his growing influence on the team.

Key Events of the Match

• First Goal: Juan Bauzá’s goal at 36 minutes.
• Injury: Andrés Sarmiento exited due to injury, bringing in Juan Manuel Rengifo.
• Second Goal: Matheus Uribe scored at the 60-minute mark.
• Historic Goal: Juan Manuel Rengifo scored an Olympic goal shortly after, becoming the sixth player in team history to achieve this.
• Fourth Goal: Alfredo Morelos extended the lead to 4-0.
• Consolation Goal: Yojan Garcés scored for América.

The match demonstrated Nacional’s offensive capabilities. After the halftime break, they maintained their dominance. Uribe increased the lead to 2-0 with his tenth goal of the season. Rengifo’s remarkable Olympic goal, just four minutes later, thrilled the fans and etched his name in the club’s history alongside legends such as Rodrigo Miranda and Gustavo Santa.

While Alfredo Morelos’ goal marked his 29th with Nacional, Yojan Garcés’ late consolation for América could not change the result, which solidified Atlético Nacional’s superiority throughout the match.

Looking Ahead

This victory positions Atlético Nacional favorably as they head to the second leg against América de Cali on Thursday, November 13, at 8:00 p.m. at Pascual Guerrero Stadium. Under Diego Arias, the team remains unbeaten in their last ten matches, reflecting eight wins and two draws. Nacional is now one of the favorites to lift the Copa BetPlay trophy.