Once Caldas faces protests ahead of clash against Bucaramanga

On the morning of September 25, Palogrande stadium was flooded with posters and decals demanding the departure of coach Hernán Darío Herrera and the Once Caldas board. A tense atmosphere took hold shortly before the clash against Atlético Bucaramanga, a match that could change the club's standing in the first stage of Liga BetPlay.

Fan protests

Fans hung a banner reading “Las excusas se acaban, la paciencia también” and decals recalling the club's history, such as “Respeten el escudo, la hinchada y la historia del Once. Ciclo cumplido”. The goal, according to the protesters, is to pressure the board and coaching staff for better results.

Once Caldas' recent performance

The Manizales team has 12 points from 10 matches, with three wins, three draws, and four losses. Their latest result was a 1-0 defeat against Deportivo Pasto, which increased fan dissatisfaction. Coach Herrera, who has been leading the club for almost three years, has a 52.8% performance rate (68 wins, 40 draws, and 46 losses in 154 matches).

Preparation for the clash against Bucaramanga

Once Caldas takes the field at 8:15 PM against Atlético Bucaramanga, who currently occupy sixth place with 17 points and arrive undefeated, with four wins and five draws. The Manizales club has marked this match as decisive to close in on the semifinal spots.

Lineup changes

For the clash, coach Herrera announced three changes: Jesus David Camargo will replace Joan Felipe Parra in goal, Jaime Alvarado will return to the midfield, and Helieyker Guzmán will enter the attack in place of Mateo Zuleta. Midfielder Alvarado highlighted the need for calmness and focus, while full-back Andrés Correa pointed out the importance of managing the pressure.

Security measures

Due to the risk of clashes, visiting fans have been banned. A security barrier was installed at the locker room doors to prevent contact between players and fans. Dimayor is monitoring the situation, following recent incidents at other Colombian stadiums.

What is at stake

With nine rounds remaining in the first stage, Once Caldas needs to secure 18 out of the 27 available points to guarantee a spot in the semifinals. The match against Bucaramanga could be decisive in keeping their hopes of advancing in the tournament alive.

With information from Deportes RCN, Infobae.