“Give the Title to Nacional Now”: Fans Explode Over Perceived Favoritism in Cardona Incident
Medellín, colombia – November 24, 2025 – Outrage is sweeping social media as fans accuse referees of bias following a controversial non-expulsion decision during the 0-0 draw between Atlético Nacional and Deportivo Independiente Medellín (DIM). The focus of the fury centers on a challenge by Atlético Nacional’s Edwin Cardona, which many believe warranted a red card, sparking accusations of preferential treatment and calls to award the championship directly to Nacional.
The incident occurred during the match, where Cardona received only a yellow card for a studs-up challenge on Londoño’s ankle. This decision has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with supporters alleging a pattern of favorable calls benefiting Nacional. Concurrently, DIM fans point to a separate incident in the same match where brayan León was also only shown a yellow card for a dangerous tackle on Campuzano while on the ground, and later, a foul on Tesillo, as further evidence of inconsistent officiating.
“In his now classic play,he kicked Campuzano when he was already on the ground. The referee punished him with a yellow card, but the truth is that if he kicked him out he had arguments,” stated ‘The VAR Central’ regarding the non-expulsion of León. “Then he goes and hits Tesillo from behind and doesn’t show him anything.Condescending Delgado.”
the controversy extends beyond the field, with fans taking to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their discontent. Posts included sentiments like “Let them give the title to Nacional now” and accusations that the officiating is akin to “the Central Rosario of Colombia,” a reference to perceived bias in Argentine football. ‘The VAR Central’ has also weighed in, stating that Cardona’s tackle was “revisable” by the VAR for a potential expulsion.
The incident arrives at a critical juncture in the league season, with the championship race tightly contested. The perception of bias,if sustained,could substantially impact the integrity of the competition and fuel further unrest among fans. The league has not yet commented on the situation.
