On August 30, 2026, Deportivo Cali and Atlético Bucaramanga drew 1-1 in the Liga BetPlay, but the most notable controversy of the match was provoked by the invasion of Deportivo Cali fans and the actions of coach Pablo Peirano.
During the course of the match, Peirano threw a ball onto the field and subsequently entered the pitch, which caused outrage from the “Azucarero” team. After the match concluded, a verbal exchange took place between Rafael Dudamel, coach of Cali, and Peirano in the press conference. Peirano defended his actions to the media, justifying his reaction and reiterating critical comments toward Dudamel, who on September 3, 2026, responded to the Uruguayan’s statements on the program Despierta Win.
Dudamel stated that he could not harm the image of Atlético Bucaramanga, a club that holds special significance in his professional career, as he won the first star for that team by defeating Santa Fe on June 15, 2024. He expressed: “I have a beautiful past and feeling with the club. I lived spectacular moments there and was able to be part of that great team that gave it its first star after 70 years. That is unforgettable, indelible. So, how could I tarnish the name of a club that will be etched in my memory and my heart for the rest of my life? Those were very nice moments. To the management, my always-respect.”
Furthermore, Dudamel reaffirmed his stance on Peirano’s actions, noting that there was coherence in the defense that the Bucaramanga club showed towards its coach, just as they did in their time. He concluded: “My colleague, the coach of Bucaramanga, did a media tour to defend his stance, his point of view, and his interests. Today, after watching the footage over and over, I still consider that it was a shameful act that did not help at all with what happened.”
Source: www.infobae.com
