The 2023 professional soccer season is underway in Colombia and here in Tunja the two professional teams have flipped leagues. Boyaca Chico, the Grand Champion of the 2022 Primera B has ascended to the A league and Patriotas Boyaca have been relegated to the B. Chico is off to a great start, taking six points with two home victories to start the season. But let’s be clear, Tunja is not a soccer city. Last year crowds of 500 or so were common for the Patriotas 1st Division matches, while Chico, fighting for promotion often say fewer that 200 fans until the promotion playoffs got rolling. And their opening match this season, was attended by maybe `1500 people.
Nevertheless, residents and visitors alike are blessed to have two teams to follow — at least at this moment. It seems that there are constant rumors that Patriotas intends to decamp to a new location. The pending completion of a new stadium in Sogamosa puts them in the team snagging business. And the recurrent small crowds always gives concern about the long term viability. But both of these teams have about 20 years of history in Tunja, and they both have their diehard bands of supporters.
Last year, I became a supporter of Chico, as I enjoyed their open attacking style and pressuring defense as they made the leap to the top of the B league. Despite a very slow off-season in terms of player acquisition to compete in the A league, the opening week has at least given hope to the Chico faithful that their stay in the A league may be lasting. Next week Patriotas kicks off seeking their return to the A (and for the fans a return of the Clasico). El Estadio de la Independencia awaits you! Tickets run from 10,000 pesos (Patriotas) to as much as 40,000 for some Chico matches. Expect raised prices for visits from Nacional, Millonarios and a couple of other big name teams.
Stadium amenities are a little sparse. On the Oriental (East side) there are big. clean bathrooms. I’ve never been on the North side, as these barras are usually reserved for the hinchadas. It can be a crazy time. The west side ))(Occidental) features close up, chairback seating, but if there is a bathroom, I haven’t seen it. Roving concessionaires offer chips, snacks, tinto, drinks, and on occasion empanadas. Expect to be searched entering the stadium. No belts or umbrellas (or anything that could be fashioned as a weapon) allowed inside!
Chico tickets may be purchased at tuboleta.com or at the stadium. Patriotas tickets are for sale at the stadium or in their fan shop. Season tickets (abonos) are also available.
