Colombian Championship. Regional League. Women
The Regional League of the Colombian Women's Championship serves as a vital breeding ground for female football talent across the nation. It brings together squads from diverse regions, enabling local players to compete at a national level and fostering the growth of women's soccer in Colombia.
History and foundation
Women's football in Colombia surged in the 2010s, with the professional league launching in 2018. The women's regional league fits into this structure, allowing underdog regions to challenge powerhouses. Notably, the 2020 season paused due to COVID-19 but restarted with enhanced protocols, unearthing fresh stars. A highlight was Antioquia's 2022 victory, clinching the title in a thrilling final upset.
Tournament format
Divided into regional divisions like North, Center, South, teams play a double round-robin within their group. Top performers advance to playoffs for the championship. Seasons span about six months with 8-12 teams per division, emphasizing local rivalries and derbies.
Interesting facts
Average goals per match stand at 2.8, rising with attacking playstyles. Top scorers include Carolina Rojas (45 career goals) and Lydia Vizbal (32 last season). Standout players: midfielder Jaylin Rodriguez from Medellin, a dribbling maestro, and goalkeeper Catalina Perez, a national icon. The league has nurtured World Cup-2023 stars for Colombia's senior team.