Colo Colo kicked off its 2026 preseason with a 0-0 draw against Paraguay's Olimpia in Montevideo, but secured a 4-3 victory on penalties thanks to saves by Fernando De Paul, the match's standout player. The goalkeeper stopped two shots and captained the team in its debut under Fernando Ortiz. Arturo Vidal featured as a libero in a back three.
The match took place at Montevideo's Estadio Luis Franzini as part of the Serie del Río de La Plata. Colo Colo, which had not played since its December 7, 2025, loss to Audax Italiano, lined up with a back three: Arturo Vidal as libero, alongside Jonathan Villagra and Joaquín Sosa. Fullbacks were Matías Fernández and Erick Wiemberg, with Tomás Alarcón and Felipe Méndez in midfield, Claudio Aquino creating, and Lucas Cepeda pairing with Javier Correa up front.
The game was even and goalless. In the early minutes, De Paul made three key saves. Olimpia, coached by Pablo “Vitamina” Sánchez, created more danger at first, but Colo Colo responded after the 25th minute. Correa missed a clear chance in the 29th, and Méndez shot wide at 41. In the second half, Correa hit the crossbar at 51, and De Paul saved a one-on-one at 67.
At 72 minutes, Ortiz made five substitutions: Esteban Pavez, Francisco Marchant, Cristián Riquelme, Leandro Hernández, and Diego Ulloa entered. Later changes included youth players. In penalties, De Paul stopped Cardozo and Pérez; Vidal, Correa, Hernández, and Pavez scored for Colo Colo, while Olimpia converted with Ortiz and Alcaraz, missing with Marchant but still losing 4-3.
This win signals the start of Ortiz's 2026 model, emphasizing defensive solidity. Colo Colo will face Alianza Lima this Sunday and Peñarol on Wednesday the 21st.
