Independiente Santa Fe exited the Copa BetPlay 2026 after a 2-0 defeat against Once Caldas at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogotá.
The elimination concludes a cup campaign for the capital club, who struggled to break down a disciplined defensive block from Manizales during the single-elimination quarterfinal.
Once Caldas Secures Semifinal Berth in Bogotá
Once Caldas secured the final ticket to the Copa BetPlay 2026 semifinals by defeating Independiente Santa Fe 2-0 on Sunday, November 2, 2026.
Once Caldas have made it to the semi-finals of the Copa Colombia after getting a surprise 2-0 away win vs Santa Fe! Quiñónes gave Once the first half lead with a brilliant chip. Late in the 2nd half, Pipe Gómez wrapped the game up with a powerful finish!https://t.co/lr8ZH7UR6s
The visiting side absorbed early pressure before seizing control of the match. Santa Fe generated initial attacking momentum through Obrian and Scarpetta, with Scarpetta forcing a sharp save from Once Caldas goalkeeper Parra via a close-range header.
Once Caldas gradually established tactical control. The breakthrough arrived on the half-hour mark when Quiñonez converted from close range following an assist by Jefry Zapata, giving the Blanco Blanco a 1-0 advantage.
Despite making tactical adjustments, Santa Fe failed to register high-danger scoring attempts in the second half. Pipe Gómez sealed the victory for Once Caldas in the 81st minute with a strike that settled the final 2-0 scoreline.
Quarterfinal Lineups and Match Context
The starting lineups were confirmed ahead of the 8:15 p.m. local kickoff at Estadio Metropolitano de Techo. The fixture served as the decisive quarterfinal tie of the 2026 tournament, following a previous 2-2 draw between the two clubs in Bogotá during an August Liga BetPlay fixture.
Throughout the second half, Once Caldas tested the Santa Fe defense further with attacking opportunities created by Barrios, Castaño, and Cardona, maintaining defensive pressure that prevented any late comeback from the Cardenales.
Upcoming Semifinal Fixture Against Atlético Nacional
With the quarterfinal victory secured, Once Caldas advances to face Atlético Nacional in the Copa BetPlay 2026 semifinals. The opposite semifinal bracket features a series between Internacional de Bogotá and América de Cali.
Keep reading
