Once Caldas · History

Once Caldas, located in the city of Manizales, Colombia, has its origins in 1947 with the creation of Deportes Caldas. This team participated in the beginnings of Colombian professional soccer, establishing the foundations of an institution with a rich soccer heritage. The re-foundation of the club in 1961, resulting from the merger between Deportes Caldas and Once Deportivo, marked the official birth of Once Caldas as it is known today.

Since its re-foundation, Once Caldas adopted white as its distinctive color, a symbol of its identity in Colombian soccer. The Palogrande Stadium, with a capacity for more than 28,000 spectators, became the team's home, being the scene of numerous soccer battles and important celebrations over the years.

Rise to the Elite: National Successes

Throughout its history, Once Caldas has achieved important successes in the Primera A, the highest level of Colombian professional soccer. Its first major triumph came in 1950, just three years after its original founding as Deportes Caldas. This early success was followed by victories in the Apertura 2003, Apertura 2009, and Finalización 2010 tournaments, consolidating Once Caldas as one of the country's top teams.

In addition to its league titles, the club has been runner-up on several occasions in both the league and the Colombian Cup, showing consistency and competitiveness in Colombian soccer. Despite economic challenges, Once Caldas has maintained a relevant presence on the national scene, adapting and evolving over the years.

The Golden Era: Copa Libertadores 2004

The high point in the club's international history occurred in 2004, when Once Caldas won the Copa Libertadores, the most prestigious club tournament in South America. This feat not only elevated the team to the elite of continental soccer, but also marked a before and after in its history. Beating Boca Juniors in the final, especially after stopping a winning streak by Sao Paulo in the semifinals, was a testament to the team's fighting spirit and quality.

The Copa Libertadores victory was not only a sporting triumph but also a symbol of pride and joy for all of Colombia. The role of goalkeeper Juan Carlos Henao, especially in the penalty shootout of the final, was crucial and made him one of the heroes of that epic campaign.

International Presence and Legendary Figures

In addition to the Copa Libertadores, Once Caldas has had an outstanding presence in other international tournaments, such as the Intercontinental Cup and the Recopa Sudamericana. Although they did not achieve victories in these tournaments, their participation reaffirmed the club's status in international soccer. These campaigns also helped forge the legend of players such as Sergio Galván Rey, known as the top scorer in Colombian soccer, who became an idol and emblematic figure of the club.