Live from the Pascual Guerrero stadium in Cali, Colombia, the Copa Sudamericana 2025 Round of 16 clash between América de Cali and Fluminense is set to unfold. The match pits the Colombian side, coached by Diego Gabriel Raimondi, against the Brazilian outfit, in a showdown that has fans across the continent eagerly awaiting kickoff.
Key details:
– Date and venue: August 12 at the Pascual Guerrero Stadium, Cali.
– TV rights: The game will be shown in Colombia exclusively on DirecTV, channel 610.
– Referee: Chilean official Cristián Garay will take charge.
– Kickoff times: 7:30 p.m. local time in Colombia; 9:30 p.m. in Brazil.
Notable developments:
– Moreno not registered: Due to registration rules, Santiago Moreno cannot face his former club América de Cali in this tie, but would be eligible to play for Fluminense if they advance to the next round.
– Transfer news: Just four hours before kickoff, Fluminense announced the arrival of Santiago Moreno, the former América de Cali standout, who leaves Major League Soccer to join Fluminense in Brazil.
– América’s pedigree: The Mecha have a storied history in international competitions, having been runners-up in the Copa Libertadores on three occasions, underscoring the high stakes of their Copa Sudamericana run.
– América’s challenge: Besides facing a historically strong continental club, América de Cali is aiming to reassert themselves in the later stages of an international competition.
América de Cali lineup:
– Goalkeeper: Jorge Soto
– Defenders: Yerson Candelo, Cristián Tovar, Jean Pestaña, Marcos Mina
– Midfield: Rafael Carrascal, Josen Escobar, Sebastián Navarro
– Attack: Cristián Barrios, Jan Lucumí, Luis Ramos
Fluminense situation and lineup note:
– Fluminense, dealing with the absence of Jhon Arias who was transferred to English football, has confirmed its starting XI for the match. The absence of Arias is a notable alteration for the Brazilian side, but the roster still features a strong mix as they seek to take an advantage to the return leg.
Why this match matters:
– Both clubs are eyeing a deep run in international competition. América de Cali, keen to reestablish themselves on the continental stage, faces a Fluminense side that recently strengthened its squad with the signing of Santiago Moreno. The clash promises high intensity at home for América and the opportunity for Fluminense to gain a crucial edge ahead of the away leg.
Summary:
– The two teams meet in Cali for a high-stakes Copa Sudamericana Round of 16 opener, broadcast on DirecTV in Colombia. Moreno’s late signing for Fluminense adds intrigue, while América looks to capitalize on home support and club history in international tournaments. The result could set the tone for the remainder of the tie.
Optional extra context for readers:
– Fans should watch for how América’s organized defense and the presence of goalkeeper Jorge Soto shape the game, as well as how Fluminense adapts without Jhon Arias, leveraging new signing Santiago Moreno to spark their attack.
Positive note:
– This matchup offers a platform for both clubs to showcase growth and resilience on the continental stage, with a spirited home crowd in Cali and a competitive Brazilian side aiming to translate domestic strength into success abroad.