The opening rounds of the Liga Dimayor has been surprising. The teams with the smallest budgets are holding spots at the top of the league. Here’s the lowdown on everything we’ve learned from the early rounds.

América de Cali flying the flag for the big clubs

América de Cali are the only of the big teams to feature in the top five. They’ve played five games: won three, drawn one, lost one – racking up 11 points.

Last time out, they picked up a dramatic 1-0 away win over Independiente Medellín. Luis Sanchez netted a 92nd-minute winner with a shot inside the area, sending the away fans into delirium. It capped off América’s first win away to Medellín in 14 years.

Boyacá Chicó, what a surprise

Boyacá Chicó are clearly the surprise of the tournament so far. After winning promotion to the Primera A, the Ajedrezado have played three, won three. They’re tied for second place with two other teams.

Venezuelan Henry Plazas has been MVP in two of their three matches, scoring three goals – from defense!

Keep your eyes peeled as this incredible story continues to develop.

Aguilas Doradas out for revenge

Aguilas were just one point away from making the finals last season. But in 2023, they’ve started strong, with the hope of righting the wrongs of last year.

They’ve picked up nine points in the five games they’ve played so far this season, but they remain undefeated. They’re sat in third place, and held out resiliently for a draw in their last game against Deportivo Cali, despite going down to 10 men.

Bucaramanga remain undefeated

Also on nine points with two wins and three draws, Bucaramanga are standing firm in fourth place.

Their last game out against Nacional de Medellín demonstrated a real grittiness that should give them confidence going forward. Tomas Ángel opened the scoring from the penalty spot to put Nacional ahead. Nacional dominated up until half-time, when Bucaramanga made some important changes.

The introduction of Teo Guttierez made a huge difference. A Gonzalo Lencina header sealed a 1-1 draw and gave Bucaramanga a well-deserved point.

Nacional have gone four consecutive games without a win.

The big disappointments…

Fans of Cali, Independiente de Medellín and Junior are not pleased with their team’s performances in the early part of this season, and with good reason.

They’re all without a win so far, and sit in 16th, 17th and 18th respectively. Junior’s position appears to be the most disappointing, particularly after the signing of internationals Juan Fernando Quintero and Carlos Bacca.

What’s next?

The Liga Dimayor is fixing the calendar at present. Due to the U-20 Sudamericano tournament, a number of teams requested the postponement of games, which has thrown up a number of logistical issues. But this weekend goes ahead as planned.

In the pick of the games, third-placed Aguilas take on fourth-placed Bucaramanga.