América Earns a Valuable Draw Against Bahia and Will Decide the Spot at Home

América de Cali earned a vital 0-0 away draw against Bahia in the first leg of their Copa Sudamericana playoff round of 16 match in Salvador, Brazil. The Colombian team resisted sustained pressure and will aim to secure qualification in next week's return leg in Cali.

Bahia dominated possession but struggled to break down América's organized defense, spearheaded by fullback Mateo Castillo. Despite dangerous chances from Michel Araújo, Rodrigo Nestor, and Cauly, the hosts failed to score. An early potential penalty for a Castillo handball was overturned by VAR.

América adopted a defensive counterattacking approach, with their best chance coming from Joel Romero in the 21st minute. Veteran goalkeeper Jorge Soto proved crucial, making key saves—particularly in the second half when Bahia intensified attacks after introducing substitutes Kayky and Everton Ribeiro.

Late-match tension escalated when Castillo was substituted following a hard tackle, creating space for Erick Pulga. VAR intervened again in stoppage time, resulting in Everton Ribeiro's red card for elbowing José Cavadía. Cavadía also received a red moments later, reducing both teams to ten players.

The goalless draw gives América de Cali the advantage heading home, as any win in the second leg would secure progression to face Fluminense in the round of 16. Bahia must win outright in Colombia to advance.