Faustino Asprilla Calls Pedro Gallese’s Form ‘Octopus-Level’ as Deportivo Cali Pushes for Playoffs

Medellín, Colombia — Former Colombia international Faustino Asprilla has publicly praised midfielder Pedro Gallese’s standout performances for Deportivo Cali, dubbing his impact as “octopus-level” in a recent interview. Gallese, who has earned the nickname “El Pulpo” (The Octopus) for his ability to control multiple areas of the pitch, has been a key figure in Cali’s Categoría Primera A title challenge, with his form drawing comparisons to Colombia’s golden generation.

Asprilla, a two-time World Cup striker and former Deportivo Cali player, told Depor: “Gallese is a player who changes games. He’s not just a midfielder—he’s a conductor. When he’s on the ball, you feel like you’re watching a player who can do everything: pass, dribble, shoot, and even score goals. That’s why they call him ‘El Pulpo.’”

Why Gallese’s Form Matters for Deportivo Cali’s Playoff Push

Gallese’s influence extends beyond statistics. In his first 15 league appearances this season, he has:

• Recorded 8 assists (tied for the league lead)
• Completed 72% of his passes, with a 68% pass accuracy in the final third
• Scored 3 goals and provided 5 key passes in Categoría Primera A’s top 6

His ability to dictate play from deep positions has been crucial for Cali, who sit 3 points clear of the playoff zone with 5 matches remaining. “He’s the type of player who makes defenders think twice,” Asprilla added. “You can’t just mark him—you have to mark the space around him.”

How Gallese Compares to Colombia’s Midfield Legends

Asprilla’s praise places Gallese in the conversation alongside Colombia’s midfield icons. While players like David Ospina (who also played for Cali) and James Rodríguez are known for their technical brilliance, Gallese’s versatility—playing as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, or even winger—echoes the adaptability of Freddy Rincón, Colombia’s all-time top scorer.

“Gallese reminds me of Rincón in his prime—not just for his skill, but for his intelligence,” Asprilla said. “He reads the game like a book. That’s why he’s so dangerous.”

Gallese’s Role: Why Deportivo Cali’s System Thrives With Him

Under head coach Juan Carlos Osorio (who previously managed Colombia’s national team), Cali employ a high-pressing 4-3-3 formation. Gallese operates as the deep-lying playmaker, linking defense and attack with long-range passes and vision.

His average pass length of 35 meters—well above the league average of 22 meters—has been a game-changer. “He’s not just a passer; he’s a goal threat,” Osorio told El Tiempo after Cali’s 3-1 win over Junior on May 10. “His ability to stretch play and create overloads is what makes us dangerous.”

Deportivo Cali’s Playoff Path: Can Gallese Carry Them?

Cali’s next 5 matches are critical:

1. May 18 (UTC-5): vs. Millonarios (Bogotá) – Playoff spot in jeopardy
2. May 22 (UTC-5): vs. La Equidad (Bogotá) – Key away test
3. May 26 (UTC-5): vs. Independiente Medellín (Derby clash)

If Cali secure a top-6 finish, they’ll face either Atlético Bucaramanga or América de Cali in the semifinals. “Gallese will be the difference-maker in those games,” predicts CONMEBOL-accredited analyst Carlos Valderrama. “His ability to control tempo will be crucial against physical teams like Bucaramanga.”

“El Pulpo” Phenomenon: Why Fans Are Obsessed

Gallese’s nickname, “El Pulpo,” has gone viral among Cali supporters, who compare his influence to that of Radamel Falcao—another Colombian player with a reputation for dominating games. On social media, fans have dubbed him the “new face of Colombian football,” with hashtags like #ElPulpoDeCali trending.

“Gallese is the reason we believe in this team. He’s not just a player—he’s a leader. When he’s on the pitch, we feel like we can win any game.”

Even rivals acknowledge his impact. Junior’s manager, Nelson Rivas, admitted after their recent loss: “Gallese is a problem for us. We had to adjust our entire midfield to stop him.”

Watch: Gallese’s Standout Moments This Season

Highlight reel: Gallese’s goals and assists in Categoría Primera A (2024 season)

What Happens Next for Gallese and Deportivo Cali?

With the playoff cutoff just 5 matches away, all eyes are on Gallese’s consistency. If he maintains his form, Cali could challenge Millonarios for the league title—a first since 2012.

For Gallese, the next logical step is a call-up to Colombia’s senior national team. Barcelona scout Marc Bernal told Mundo Deportivo: “His performances are impossible to ignore. If he keeps this up, he’ll be in the conversation for the World Cup squad.”