Barranquilla, Colombia. The reigning champion of the Colombian League was eliminated from the Copa BetPlay by Barranquilla FC, its own reserve team, something that had never happened in the history of the country’s football. 😳
The series ended 5-5 on aggregate after 3-3 and 2-2 draws, and everything was decided in the penalty shootout: 5-3 for the home side. Yimmi Chará, a Junior player, did not hold back and described what happened as “shameful”. Even Luis Díaz, who played for Barranquilla FC before joining Junior, was in the stands watching this story unfold.
Media outlets in France, Brazil, Spain, and Chile echoed the news, comparing the embarrassment to Real Madrid losing to its own reserve team. Coach Alfredo Arias will remain in charge, but the academy side has already advanced to the round of 16 against Millonarios ⚽🔥
😳🇨🇴 Junior de Barranquilla has just been ELIMINATED by Barranquilla FC, ITS RESERVE TEAM! pic.twitter.com/rFpl8SH5r1
— Sudanalytics (@sudanalytics_) July 30, 2026