Palmaseca, Colombia – Once Caldas are the fresh leaders of the Liga BetPlay I 2026 after a decisive 2-0 victory over Deportivo Cali on Friday night. The win, secured on the road at the Estadio Deportivo Cali in Palmira, puts El Blanco Blanco at the top of the table with 19 points, though their hold on first place is contingent on upcoming matches.
The match marked a significant milestone for veteran striker Dayro Moreno, who opened the scoring for Once Caldas with a penalty in the 36th minute. This goal not only contributed to the team’s success but also extended Moreno’s impressive record, making him the all-time leading scorer in Once Caldas history with 173 goals, surpassing Sergio Galván Rey.
The victory wasn’t solely down to Moreno’s prowess. An own goal by Deportivo Cali’s Andrés Correa in the 75th minute further solidified Once Caldas’ lead. The team demonstrated a strong defensive performance, keeping a clean sheet and effectively neutralizing Deportivo Cali’s attacking threats.
A Tale of Two Halves at Palmaseca
The game began with an intense pace, with both teams vying for control. Early pressure from Once Caldas nearly resulted in a goal within the first minute, but a close call saw a shot from Felipe Gómez narrowly miss the target. The match quickly settled into a physical contest, with both sides battling for dominance in midfield.
Controversy arose around the 30th minute when a goal from Deportivo Cali was disallowed for offsides. Shortly after, a penalty was awarded to Once Caldas after Dayro Moreno was brought down in the box. The decision, initially questioned, was upheld after review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). Moreno calmly converted the penalty, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and giving Once Caldas a crucial lead heading into halftime.
The second half saw Deportivo Cali struggle to break down Once Caldas’ resolute defense. The home side’s task became even more difficult when Felipe Aguilar received a red card in the 70th minute, leaving them to play the final 20 minutes with ten men. Just five minutes later, Correa’s own goal effectively sealed the victory for Once Caldas.
Standings Implications and What’s Next
With 19 points, Once Caldas currently share the lead with Internacional de Bogotá, but hold the advantage on goal difference (+8 compared to Bogotá’s +2). Yet, their position at the top of the Liga BetPlay is not yet secure. They will have to wait until Monday’s match between Deportivo Pasto and América to see if they can maintain their lead.
For Deportivo Cali, the defeat is a significant setback in their fight to avoid relegation. They remain in tenth place with 12 points, dangerously close to the bottom of the table. The team is currently just above Cúcuta Deportivo and Boyacá Chicó, who are facing the prospect of being relegated.
Next up, Once Caldas will return to Manizales to host Deportivo Pasto. Deportivo Cali, meanwhile, faces a crucial away match against Cúcuta Deportivo in a direct battle to escape the relegation zone. This match will be a must-win for the Azucareros as they look to climb out of danger.
The Liga BetPlay I 2026 season is shaping up to be a tightly contested affair, and Once Caldas’ recent form suggests they are serious contenders for the title. However, with several teams closely bunched at the top of the table, the race for the championship is far from over.
Key Takeaways:
- Once Caldas are currently leading the Liga BetPlay I 2026 with 19 points.
- Dayro Moreno scored his 173rd goal for Once Caldas, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer.
- Deportivo Cali’s struggles continue, leaving them near the relegation zone.
- Felipe Aguilar’s red card proved costly for Deportivo Cali.
The next confirmed checkpoint is Once Caldas’ home match against Deportivo Pasto. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the Liga BetPlay and all the latest developments from the world of Colombian football.
What are your thoughts on Once Caldas’ chances this season? Share your predictions in the comments below!
