Once Caldas has substantially boosted its chances of reaching the knockout stage of the 2025 Copa Conmebol Sudamericana, securing a commanding 3-0 victory over San Antonio Bulo in the first leg of their playoff tie on Wednesday, July 16.
Coach Hernรกn Darรญo Herrera orchestrated an intelligent tactical approach at the Fรฉlix Capriles stadium in Cochabamba. His starting lineup,notably omitting star striker Dayro Moreno,signaled a preference for a more dynamic attacking unit,prioritizing agility over a focal point for the opposition’s defense.
Once Caldas displayed a disciplined performance, outplaying their hosts. The complexion of the match shifted dramatically in the 43rd minute with the expulsion of San Antonio’s Erwin Sรกnchez, a disadvantage that heavily influenced the second half.
The decisive goals for the visiting “white-white” team all came after the interval. Jefry zapata opened the scoring in the 50th minute, capitalizing on a rebound from the opposing goalkeeper.
With a comfortable lead and the advantage of an extra player, Herrera introduced dayro Moreno in the 85th minute. the prolific scorer wasted no time, doubling the advantage to 2-0 and effectively sealing the victory.
Luis Gรณmez added the final touch in the 88th minute, scoring the third goal to put the tie firmly in Once Caldas’s favor.
This emphatic win provides a significant cushion and a surge of confidence for Once Caldas. They now return to Manizales with the expectation of completing the job in the second leg and confirming their passage to the round of 16 of the Copa Sudamericana.