Cucuta vs Fortaleza: Match Preview, Predictions and Betting Tips
Published on Wednesday, 27 May 2026 by Steve
CĂșcuta Deportivo vs Fortaleza CEIF
Copa Colombia 2026 Prediction & Betting Tips
Match Overview
The 2026 Copa Colombia Group C fixture between CĂșcuta Deportivo and Fortaleza CEIF promises to be a fascinating tactical battle at the iconic Estadio General Santander. This encounter represents a critical juncture in the group stage, with Fortaleza CEIF currently occupying first position in Group C while CĂșcuta Deportivo sits in fifth place, desperately seeking their first victory of the campaign. The match carries significant implications for both sides' aspirations of advancing to the Round of 16, making it one of the most intriguing fixtures on the Colombian football calendar this weekend.
CĂșcuta Deportivo, under the stewardship of veteran Venezuelan tactician Richard PĂĄez, have endured a challenging start to their Copa Colombia journey, managing two draws from their opening two matches. Their most recent result was a hard-fought 0-0 stalemate against ItagĂŒĂ Leones FC at home, a performance that showcased their defensive resilience but also highlighted their struggles in the final third. The Motilones have been unable to find the back of the net consistently, with Jhonatan Agudelo carrying the goal-scoring burden virtually single-handedly. With the passionate CĂșcuta faithful expecting nothing less than total commitment, PĂĄez will be demanding a significant improvement in attacking output if his side are to claim all three points against a well-organized Fortaleza outfit.
Fortaleza CEIF, meanwhile, have demonstrated why they are considered one of the most dangerous sides in this season's Copa Colombia. Under the guidance of SebastiĂĄn Oliveros, the BogotĂĄ-based club has compiled an impressive record of one win, one draw, and one defeat from their three group matches, including a resounding 4-1 victory over Leones FC that sent shockwaves through the competition. Their attacking prowess has been evident, averaging 1.67 goals per match, with Santiago Cuero emerging as their leading marksman. However, their away form remains a question mark, and the intimidating atmosphere of Estadio General Santander â with its capacity of over 42,000 spectators â will present a stern test of their mental fortitude. For bettors seeking draw predictions or over-under analysis, this fixture offers compelling opportunities given the contrasting styles and motivations of both teams.
Tactical Preview
Formation & Key Matchups
CĂșcuta Deportivo 4-2-3-1
Richard PĂĄez has predominantly deployed CĂșcuta in a disciplined 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing compact defensive shape and rapid transitions. The double pivot of VĂctor MejĂa and Santiago Orozco provides a solid shield in front of the back four, while the creative trio of Lucas RĂos, Leider Berdugo, and Frank Castañeda are tasked with supplying ammunition to the lone striker. PĂĄez's philosophy centers on controlling the tempo through patient build-up play, utilizing the width provided by full-backs Mauricio Duarte and Armando Ballesteros. The Motilones have shown a tendency to sit deeper against stronger opposition, inviting pressure before springing counter-attacks through the pace of Jhon Valencia on the right flank. Their defensive organization has been a bright spot, conceding just 0.5 goals per match in the Copa Colombia, but their inability to convert territorial dominance into clear-cut chances remains a persistent concern. The central defensive partnership of Diego Calcaterra and Jhon Quiñones â the latter on loan from San Lorenzo de Almagro â has been formidable, combining physicality with intelligent positional play.
Fortaleza CEIF 4-4-2 / 4-2-3-1
SebastiĂĄn Oliveros has demonstrated tactical flexibility throughout the 2025/2026 campaign, alternating between a traditional 4-4-2 and a more dynamic 4-2-3-1 depending on the opponent. Fortaleza's approach is characterized by high-intensity pressing, particularly in the middle third, where the experienced Leonardo Pico and the energetic Kevin Balanta disrupt opposition rhythm. Their wide players, AndrĂ©s Amaya and Jhon VelĂĄsquez, provide width and creativity, while the forward pairing of Teun Wilke â on loan from Mexican giants Guadalajara â and Juan SebastiĂĄn Herrera offers a blend of physical presence and technical quality. Defensively, the backline marshaled by Yesid DĂaz and Jonathan Marulanda has been reasonably solid, though they have shown vulnerability to balls in behind, particularly when playing with a high defensive line. Oliveros encourages his full-backs, Miguel PernĂa and Santiago Cuero, to push high up the pitch, which can leave spaces for astute opponents to exploit on the break. Their average of 12.49 shots per match and 1.31 expected goals indicates a team that creates opportunities but occasionally lacks clinical finishing.
Critical Vulnerability
The decisive tactical battleground will likely be the midfield zone, where CĂșcuta's conservative double pivot clashes with Fortaleza's aggressive pressing unit. If PĂĄez's side can bypass the initial press and find Lucas RĂos or Leider Berdugo in pockets of space between the lines, they could exploit Fortaleza's tendency to overcommit players forward. Conversely, if Oliveros' men succeed in forcing turnovers in dangerous areas, CĂșcuta's back four â for all their organizational qualities â may struggle against the pace and movement of Wilke and Herrera. The set-piece battle also warrants attention; Fortaleza have conceded from dead-ball situations in previous Copa Colombia fixtures, and CĂșcuta possess several aerial threats from corners and free-kicks. For those exploring correct score tips, the tactical tension suggests a low-scoring affair where individual moments of quality could prove decisive.
Team News & Squad Status
CĂșcuta Deportivo đ
- Goalkeeper: Federico AbadĂa is expected to start between the posts, with Juan David RamĂrez providing backup.
- Defence: The back four is likely to feature Armando Ballesteros (RB), Jhon Quiñones and Diego Calcaterra (CB), and Mauricio Duarte (LB). Brayan Montaño and Luis Payares offer depth.
- Midfield: VĂctor MejĂa and Santiago Orozco should anchor the midfield, with Lucas RĂos, Leider Berdugo, and Frank Castañeda in advanced roles. Kevin Londoño (on loan from Leones FC) is another option.
- Attack: Jhonatan Agudelo leads the line as the focal point, supported by wide options Jhon Valencia (on loan from Polissya Zhytomyr) and Eduar ArĂzalas (on loan from Real Cartagena). Luifer HernĂĄndez and Jaime Peralta provide alternatives.
- Injuries/Suspensions: No major injury concerns reported for the Motilones heading into this fixture. The squad is near full strength.
- Form: Two draws from two Copa Colombia matches (0-0 vs Leones FC, 1-1 vs Orsomarso). Winless in their last five competitive fixtures across all competitions.
Fortaleza CEIF đ
- Goalkeeper: Miguel Silva (VEN) is the first-choice keeper, with Cristian Santander and Michael BarragĂĄn as alternatives.
- Defence: Expected backline: Jonathan Marulanda (RB), Yesid DĂaz and David RamĂrez (CB, on loan from Santa Fe), Miguel PernĂa (LB, on loan from Carabobo). Santiago Cuero and Jhon Balanta provide cover.
- Midfield: Leonardo Pico (captain) and Kevin Balanta in central midfield, with SebastiĂĄn Navarro and Jhon VelĂĄsquez in advanced wide/central roles. JerĂłnimo Barrera and Cristian Orozco are squad options.
- Attack: Teun Wilke (MEX, on loan from Guadalajara) and Juan Sebastiån Herrera lead the line. Andrés Amaya, Richardson Rivas, and Franco Pulicastro (ARG) offer attacking depth.
- Injuries/Suspensions: Fortaleza report a clean bill of health with no significant absentees for the trip to CĂșcuta.
- Form: One win, one draw, one defeat in Copa Colombia (4-1 vs Leones FC, 1-1 vs Orsomarso, 1-0 loss vs Atlético Bucaramanga). Currently top of Group C.
Predicted Lineups
| CĂșcuta Deportivo 4-2-3-1 | Fortaleza CEIF 4-4-2 |
|---|---|
| Federico AbadĂa (GK) | Miguel Silva (GK) |
| Armando Ballesteros (RB) | Jonathan Marulanda (RB) |
| Jhon Quiñones (CB) | Yesid DĂaz (CB) |
| Diego Calcaterra (CB) | David RamĂrez (CB) |
| Mauricio Duarte (LB) | Miguel PernĂa (LB) |
| VĂctor MejĂa (DM) | Leonardo Pico (CM) |
| Santiago Orozco (DM) | Kevin Balanta (CM) |
| Jhon Valencia (RW) | Andrés Amaya (RM) |
| Lucas RĂos (AM) | SebastiĂĄn Navarro (LM) |
| Frank Castañeda (LW) | Jhon Velåsquez (CAM) |
| Jhonatan Agudelo (ST) | Teun Wilke (ST) |
| Juan SebastiĂĄn Herrera (ST) |
Head-to-Head Record
The historical rivalry between CĂșcuta Deportivo and Fortaleza CEIF has produced closely contested encounters over the years, with neither side establishing outright dominance. Across their past 12 meetings in all competitions, CĂșcuta have emerged victorious on four occasions, Fortaleza have claimed three wins, and five matches have ended in draws â a statistic that underscores the competitive balance between these two Colombian clubs. Their most recent league encounter on 31 January 2026 ended in a 1-1 draw at Estadio General Santander, with both teams canceling each other out in a tactical chess match. In the Copa Colombia specifically, the head-to-head record is even more tightly balanced, with both sides having struggled to break down the other's defensive organization. The average goals per match in their direct confrontations sits at a modest 1.71, reinforcing the narrative that these fixtures tend to be cagey, low-scoring affairs where defensive discipline takes precedence over attacking flair. For punters looking at double chance predictions or both teams to score markets, the historical data strongly favors conservative outcomes.
Delving deeper into the recent form within this fixture, CĂșcuta have not lost to Fortaleza in their last two competitive meetings, recording two consecutive draws. Fortaleza's solitary victory in their most recent Copa Colombia clash came at home, where they capitalized on early pressure to secure a narrow win. However, at Estadio General Santander, the Motilones have proven particularly difficult to break down, with Fortaleza failing to win on their last two visits to CĂșcuta. The psychological edge may therefore lie with the home side, who will draw confidence from their unbeaten record against Fortaleza in front of their own supporters. Set-pieces have played a significant role in previous encounters, with three of the last five goals in this fixture originating from dead-ball situations â a trend that both managers will have undoubtedly analyzed in their pre-match preparations. Bettors interested in under/over markets should note that 83% of their last six meetings have produced fewer than 2.5 goals, making the under 2.5 goals line an attractive proposition at European odds of 1.65.
Key Players Comparison
Jhonatan Agudelo
CĂșcuta Deportivo | Forward
The Motilones' primary goal threat and top scorer in Copa Colombia 2026. Agudelo combines intelligent movement with a clinical instinct inside the penalty area. His ability to hold up play and bring midfield runners into the game will be crucial against Fortaleza's compact defensive block.
Teun Wilke
Fortaleza CEIF | Forward (on loan from Guadalajara)
The Mexican striker has added a new dimension to Fortaleza's attack with his physical presence and aerial ability. Wilke's hold-up play and link-up with Herrera have been key to Fortaleza's offensive output. His battle against Quiñones and Calcaterra will be one of the defining matchups.
Lucas RĂos
CĂșcuta Deportivo | Attacking Midfielder
The Argentine playmaker, signed from Banfield in January 2026, is the creative heartbeat of this CĂșcuta side. RĂos' vision and passing range allow him to unlock stubborn defenses, and his set-piece delivery is a potent weapon that Fortaleza must neutralize.
SebastiĂĄn Navarro
Fortaleza CEIF | Midfielder
Navarro has been instrumental in Fortaleza's Copa Colombia campaign, contributing goals and assists from midfield. His ability to arrive late in the box and his tireless work rate make him a constant threat. CĂșcuta's defensive midfielders must track his runs carefully.
The individual duels across the pitch will ultimately determine the outcome of this encounter. In goal, Federico AbadĂa has been a reliable presence for CĂșcuta, producing crucial saves that have kept his side in matches during their winless run. His counterpart Miguel Silva, the Venezuelan international, brings experience and commanding aerial ability to the Fortaleza backline. In midfield, the clash between CĂșcuta's VĂctor MejĂa â a winter arrival from BoyacĂĄ ChicĂł â and Fortaleza's veteran captain Leonardo Pico promises to be a fascinating contest of contrasting styles: MejĂa's energy and ball-winning against Pico's composure and distribution. Out wide, the pace of CĂșcuta's Jhon Valencia against Fortaleza's Jonathan Marulanda could create opportunities for the home side, while Fortaleza's AndrĂ©s Amaya will look to test Mauricio Duarte's defensive discipline. For those seeking best bets for today, monitoring the individual player matchups provides valuable insight into where the game might be won or lost.
The Managers
Richard PĂĄez (CĂșcuta Deportivo)
The 73-year-old Venezuelan legend took charge of CĂșcuta Deportivo in February 2026, replacing Nelson FlĂłrez during a turbulent period for the club. PĂĄez brings a wealth of experience from his time managing the Venezuelan national team and various clubs across South America. His tactical philosophy emphasizes defensive organization, disciplined shape, and patient build-up play â qualities that have already begun to manifest in CĂșcuta's improved defensive record. PĂĄez is known for his meticulous preparation and ability to instill belief in underperforming squads, traits that will be essential if CĂșcuta are to turn their Copa Colombia campaign around. His decision to switch to a 4-2-3-1 formation has provided greater defensive stability, though questions remain about whether his conservative approach can generate enough attacking impetus against well-organized opponents like Fortaleza.
PĂĄez's man-management skills have been evident in the way he has integrated new arrivals such as Lucas RĂos and VĂctor MejĂa into the starting XI. However, his tenure has not been without challenges â CĂșcuta's struggles in front of goal have persisted, and the pressure from the demanding CĂșcuta fanbase is mounting with each winless result. Against Fortaleza, PĂĄez faces a tactical dilemma: stick to his pragmatic principles and risk another low-scoring draw, or adopt a more adventurous approach that could leave his defense exposed to Fortaleza's counter-attacking threat. The experienced coach will be acutely aware that a defeat here could severely damage his side's qualification hopes, adding an extra layer of tension to his tactical decisions.
SebastiĂĄn Oliveros (Fortaleza CEIF)
SebastiĂĄn Oliveros has been at the Fortaleza CEIF helm since 2023, guiding the club through their promotion to Primera A and establishing them as a competitive force in Colombian football. The 38-year-old coach has earned plaudits for his progressive tactical approach, blending high-intensity pressing with fluid attacking movements. Under Oliveros, Fortaleza have developed a clear identity: aggressive without the ball, creative with it. His willingness to trust young talents such as Cristian Orozco and JerĂłnimo Barrera alongside experienced heads like Leonardo Pico and Jhon VelĂĄsquez has created a balanced squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. The 4-1 demolition of Leones FC in the Copa Colombia was a testament to Oliveros' attacking philosophy, though he has shown tactical flexibility by adopting more conservative approaches in difficult away fixtures.
Oliveros' challenge against CĂșcuta lies in balancing his natural attacking instincts with the pragmatism required to secure results on the road. Fortaleza's away form in the Copa Colombia has been patchy, and the cauldron-like atmosphere of Estadio General Santander will test his players' concentration and discipline. The coach has spoken publicly about the importance of maintaining possession and starving CĂșcuta of counter-attacking opportunities â a strategy that requires patience and precision. Oliveros' ability to make effective in-game adjustments has been a hallmark of his management style, and his decisions from the bench could prove decisive in a match where margins are expected to be razor-thin. For those analyzing live betting strategies, Oliveros' tendency to make early second-half substitutions when chasing or protecting leads is a pattern worth monitoring.
Betting Predictions & Tips
Odds: 1.65 (European)
This is our strongest recommendation for this fixture. The statistical evidence overwhelmingly supports a low-scoring encounter. CĂșcuta Deportivo have kept clean sheets in 50% of their Copa Colombia matches and average just 0.5 goals per game, while Fortaleza's away fixtures in the competition have been tight, low-scoring affairs. The head-to-head history between these sides further reinforces this trend â 83% of their last six meetings have finished with fewer than 2.5 goals. Both managers prioritize defensive organization, and with CĂșcuta desperate to avoid defeat and Fortaleza likely to adopt a cautious approach on the road, the conditions are ripe for another goalless or single-goal contest. For bettors seeking over-under predictions, the under 2.5 line at 1.65 represents excellent value.
Odds: 3.10 (European)
The draw market offers compelling value at 3.10, particularly given the tactical profiles of both teams and their recent head-to-head history. CĂșcuta have drawn both of their Copa Colombia fixtures so far, while Fortaleza's away record suggests they are more than capable of securing a point in hostile environments. The Motilones' inability to convert chances combined with Fortaleza's defensive resilience points toward a stalemate. Richard PĂĄez's conservative approach and Oliveros' respect for CĂșcuta's home advantage make a draw the most probable outcome. Bettors looking for draw predictions should note that this fixture has produced five draws in the last 12 meetings â a 42% draw rate that significantly exceeds the implied probability of the 3.10 odds.
Odds: 1.80 (European)
The "Both Teams to Score â No" market at 1.80 aligns perfectly with our expectation of a tight, defensively oriented match. CĂșcuta have failed to score in 50% of their Copa Colombia fixtures, while Fortaleza have kept their opponents at bay in key moments despite their attacking reputation. The tactical setups of both teams â CĂșcuta's deep 4-2-3-1 and Fortaleza's structured 4-4-2 â are designed to minimize goal-scoring opportunities for the opposition. Historical data shows that only 41% of Fortaleza's matches this season have seen both teams find the net, and CĂșcuta's figure is even lower at 35%. For those exploring BTTS markets, the "No" option presents a solid betting angle with a strong statistical foundation.
Odds: 6.50 (European)
Our primary correct score prediction is 0-0 at attractive odds of 6.50. This selection is underpinned by multiple converging factors: CĂșcuta's goalless draw in their most recent Copa Colombia home fixture, Fortaleza's struggles to break down organized defenses on the road, and the historical precedent of low-scoring encounters between these teams. The tactical battle in midfield is likely to stifle creative flow, while both goalkeepers â AbadĂa and Silva â have demonstrated shot-stopping capabilities that could preserve their respective clean sheets. While correct score betting inherently carries higher risk, the 6.50 odds offer substantial reward for a scenario that our analysis suggests has a higher probability than the market implies. For correct score enthusiasts, this is the standout selection.
Odds: 4.20 (European)
For those seeking a higher-risk, higher-reward option, CĂșcuta to win to nil at 4.20 offers intriguing potential. While our primary prediction is a 0-0 draw, the possibility of CĂșcuta grinding out a narrow 1-0 victory cannot be dismissed. The Motilones have shown defensive solidity at home, and Fortaleza's away form has been inconsistent. If Jhonatan Agudelo or Lucas RĂos can produce a moment of individual brilliance, CĂșcuta could secure a priceless victory while maintaining their defensive discipline. This selection is best approached as a speculative wager with smaller stakes, but the 4.20 odds provide generous compensation for the risk involved. Bettors interested in win predictions may find this an appealing alternative to the standard match result markets.
đ Final Score Prediction
Match Analysis
Our prediction of a 0-0 draw is the culmination of extensive statistical analysis, tactical evaluation, and historical trend assessment. CĂșcuta Deportivo's defensive organization under Richard PĂĄez has been their defining characteristic in the Copa Colombia, conceding just one goal in two matches while maintaining a compact shape that frustrates opponents. However, their attacking output has been equally underwhelming â the Motilones have scored just once in the competition and have failed to find the net in their last home fixture. Fortaleza CEIF, despite their impressive 4-1 victory over Leones FC, have shown a markedly different approach in away fixtures, prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking ambition. Their 1-0 defeat to AtlĂ©tico Bucaramanga on the road demonstrated their vulnerability when forced to play on the back foot, while their 1-1 draw with Orsomarso showcased their ability to grind out results without dominating possession.
The tactical battle will likely be decided in midfield, where both teams' conservative instincts are expected to cancel each other out. CĂșcuta's double pivot of MejĂa and Orozco will seek to deny Fortaleza's creative players time and space, while Oliveros' men will look to press high and force turnovers in dangerous areas. However, the quality of both defensive units â particularly the central defensive partnerships of Quiñones/Calcaterra and DĂaz/RamĂrez â suggests that clear-cut chances will be at a premium. Set-pieces may offer the best route to goal, but both goalkeepers have demonstrated strong command of their respective penalty areas. The psychological dynamic also favors a draw: CĂșcuta cannot afford to lose if they hope to advance, while Fortaleza may view a point on the road as an acceptable result that maintains their position at the top of Group C. For bettors consulting full-time predictions or draw no bet markets, the 0-0 scoreline represents the most logical outcome of this tactical chess match.
Key Insights & Statistics
- Defensive Dominance: CĂșcuta Deportivo have kept clean sheets in 50% of their Copa Colombia 2026 matches, conceding just 0.5 goals per game on average. Their defensive organization under Richard PĂĄez has been the team's standout feature.
- Goal Drought: The Motilones have scored only one goal in two Copa Colombia fixtures and have failed to find the net in their most recent home match (0-0 vs Leones FC). Jhonatan Agudelo is their only goalscorer in the competition.
- Fortaleza's Away Form: Fortaleza CEIF have struggled on the road in Copa Colombia, suffering a 1-0 defeat to Atlético Bucaramanga and managing only a 1-1 draw with Orsomarso in their away fixtures.
- Head-to-Head History: Five of the last 12 meetings between these sides have ended in draws (42%), with an average of just 1.71 goals per match. Their most recent encounter on 31 January 2026 finished 1-1.
- Low-Scoring Trend: 83% of the last six head-to-head matches have produced fewer than 2.5 goals, making the under 2.5 goals market a statistically strong betting option at 1.65.
- Fortaleza's Attack: Despite their overall attacking prowess (1.67 goals per match in Copa Colombia), Fortaleza have failed to score in one of their three group games and average just 1.03 actual goals against 1.31 expected goals.
- Home Advantage: CĂșcuta have not lost to Fortaleza in their last two home meetings, recording one win and one draw. Estadio General Santander remains a formidable fortress for the Motilones.
- Managerial Experience: Richard PĂĄez (73) is one of the most experienced coaches in Colombian football, while SebastiĂĄn Oliveros (38) represents the new generation of tacticians. Their contrasting philosophies will define the match's tempo.
- Set-Piece Threat: Three of the last five goals in this fixture have come from set-pieces. Lucas RĂos' delivery for CĂșcuta and Leonardo Pico's aerial presence for Fortaleza could be decisive.
- Group Standings: Fortaleza CEIF sit top of Group C with 4 points, while CĂșcuta Deportivo are in 5th place with 2 points. A draw would suit Fortaleza's qualification hopes more than CĂșcuta's.
- BTTS Statistics: Both teams have scored in only 41% of Fortaleza's matches this season and 35% of CĂșcuta's, supporting the "Both Teams to Score â No" selection at 1.80.
- Squad Depth: Both teams report no major injury concerns, with near-full-strength squads available. Fortaleza's loan signings Teun Wilke (Guadalajara) and Miguel PernĂa (Carabobo) add international quality.
Conclusion
The Copa Colombia 2026 Group C clash between CĂșcuta Deportivo and Fortaleza CEIF at Estadio General Santander is poised to be a tactical battle defined by defensive discipline and cautious ambition rather than free-flowing attacking football. Our comprehensive analysis â encompassing current form, head-to-head history, tactical matchups, and statistical trends â points decisively toward a low-scoring encounter, with a 0-0 draw emerging as the most probable outcome. CĂșcuta's struggles in front of goal, combined with Fortaleza's pragmatic approach to away fixtures, create the perfect conditions for a stalemate that satisfies neither set of supporters but reflects the reality of two evenly matched teams canceling each other out.
For bettors, the value lies in the defensive markets. The Under 2.5 Goals selection at 1.65 represents the safest and most statistically robust option, supported by 83% of recent head-to-head meetings finishing below that threshold. The Draw at 3.10 offers excellent value for those seeking higher returns, while Both Teams to Score â No at 1.80 provides a solid middle ground. Our speculative correct score of 0-0 at 6.50 is the headline prediction, though the cautious nature of both managers means that a 1-0 result either way cannot be entirely ruled out. As always, responsible gambling practices should be observed, and stakes should be managed according to individual bankroll strategies. For more hot predictions and bet of the day selections, visit our comprehensive football betting hub.
Ultimately, this fixture encapsulates the beauty and frustration of knockout football â two teams with everything to play for, yet both terrified of making the fatal mistake that could end their Copa Colombia journey. Richard PĂĄez and SebastiĂĄn Oliveros are both too tactically astute to engage in an open, end-to-end contest, and the Estadio General Santander crowd will witness a match where every pass, every tackle, and every decision is weighed with the gravity of qualification at stake. Whether it finishes 0-0 or produces a late, dramatic winner, one thing is certain: this is Colombian football at its most compelling, where tactical nuance and mental resilience matter just as much as technical ability. For live updates and in-play betting opportunities, check our live scores section during the match.