Football Games in Medellin
Football, or soccer as it is known in some parts of the world, is an integral part of Colombian culture.
There are two professional teams in Medellin and watching either of these teams play is the best way to experience Latin America’s extraordinary passion for football.
Atlético Nacional
Atlético Nacional was founded in 1947 and has won numerous domestic and international titles, including the Copa Libertadores, the most prestigious club competition in South America. Atlético Nacional plays its home matches at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium in Medellín.
Throughout its history, Atlético Nacional has consistently been one of the top football clubs in Colombia and has produced many talented players who have gone on to have successful careers at the international level. Some of the club's notable players include Andrés Escobar, who was a member of the Colombian national team that reached the 1994 FIFA World Cup, and Radamel Falcao, who has played for some of the top clubs in Europe and is considered one of the best Colombian footballers of all time.
In addition to its success on the pitch, Atlético Nacional is known for its strong commitment to social and environmental causes. The club has been involved in various initiatives to promote education and sustainability in the local community.
Atletico also has a virtual shop and several physical shops in Medellin called Tienda Verde if you wish to buy authentic team gear and match tickets.
Deportivo Independiente Medellín
Deportivo Independiente Medellín, also known as DIM, was founded in 1913 and has a long and rich history in Colombian football. DIM also plays its home matches at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium in Medellín. DIM has won several domestic and international titles, including the Colombian Primera A, the top division of Colombian football, on four occasions. The club has also reached the final of the Copa Libertadores, the most prestigious club competition in South America, on two occasions.
Throughout its history, DIM has produced many talented players who have gone on to have successful careers at the international level. Some of the club's notable players include Carlos Valderrama, who is considered one of the best Colombian footballers of all time and played for the national team in three FIFA World Cups, and Freddy Rincón, who won the Italian Serie A title with Juventus and played for the Colombian national team in two FIFA World Cups.
Like Atletico, DIM also have an online shop Tienda DIM, but only one physical shop. You can buy match tickets here also.
Atanasio Girardot Stadium
Atanasio Girardot Stadium
The stadium was named after Atanasio Girardot, a Colombian lawyer, politician, and journalist who was a key figure in the country's independence from Spain. The Atanasio Girardot Stadium was first built in 1953, with a seating capacity of around 20,000. It has undergone several renovations since then, and its current capacity is approximately 45,000 making it the third largest stadium in Colombia.
The stadium is known for its passionate fans, and it is often referred to as "El Pibe" (The Kid) in honor of former Colombian national team player Carlos Valderrama, who played for Deportivo Independiente Medellín.
In addition to hosting football matches, the Atanasio Girardot Stadium has also been used for other sporting events and music concerts ranging from local artists such as Maluma and Karol G through to international artists such as Bad Bunny and Madonna. It has been the site of several major international tournaments, including the Copa America and the FIFA World Cup.
If you want to know more about Atanasio Girardot Stadium and speak Spanish you can also enjoy a guided tour of the stadium (contact the stadium for more information).
Medellin Football Match Tickets
The Atanasio Girardot Stadium is located near the Estadio metro station and last minute tickets can be bought at the stadium, except for major matches which obviously sell out well in advance. Tickets should cost around $20,000 COP to $50,000 COP depending on the section of the stadium. You may also find ticket scalpers selling tickets. Games usually occur on Wednesdays while some are on Saturday or Sunday.
You can also buy tickets from the Atletico or DIM shops.
Stadium Safety
With a passionate fan base its common for things to get out of control during and after football matches. You will be patted down as you enter the stadium to avoid fans bringing in guns or knives etc. It has been know for the police to use tear gas to disperse the crowd after games.
Always check with a local person about the rules, recommendation and suggestions for attending football games. If in doubt you can find organised football tours on Airbnb experiences and Tripadvisor.
