While all eyes were set on the Copa Libertadores final and the liberation of Colombian hostages that took place earlier in the day, there was a first leg tie between little Boyaca Chico and powerful America of Cali.
America had the home field advantage and was the favorite to win the Torneo apertura. But Colombia is a country filled with a history of soccer controversy and last night was no exception.
Chico drew first blood when Nestor Salazar struck in the 19th minute while Adrian Ramos tied it for the Red Devils (America) in the 41st minute. When it all seemed like the game was ready to end at stoppage time Chico attacked and Frank Pacheco scored what seemed to be the last minute game winner which gave Chico an advantage going into the next game.
As the Chico players celebrated Ref Wilmar Roldan had already ended the game. Now get this… Chico was in the middle of the attack, it was obvious they were going to score, yet the Ref calls the game off right as Chico scores! A Red card was given to Pacheco for his heated protest against Ref Roldan who was taken out of the field surrounded by 20 riot police. I hope the Colombian Soccer Federation looks into this, to me it seems like the Ref was doing all he could so that America would not lose.
Boyaca Chico is a team that has only been in first division for 6 years, they hope to be crowned next week at home. Hopefully the Refs will not get in the way of Boyaca Chico’s dreams.