Atlético Nacional shifts focus to the Clausura after cup draw with Sao Paulo
After a cup draw with Sao Paulo, Atlético Nacional is turning its attention to the Liga BetPlay Dimayor 2025-II Clausura. The Verdolagas will host Fortaleza CEIF, nicknamed the Amix, this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Atanasio Girardot, in Week 7 of the Colombian professional league.
In the previous matchday, Nacional defeated Alianza FC 3-0 at the Polideportivo Sur, while Fortaleza CEIF were held to a 0-0 draw by Deportivo Pereira. In the standings, Nacional sits second with 11 points, while Fortaleza CEIF is fifth with 10 points.
Team news and call-ups
Novedades en la convocatoria verdolaga:
– Absences: David Ospina, William Tesillo, Marino Hinestroza, Facundo Batista, and Dairon Asprilla (medical report).
– Return of Andrés Sarmiento.
– U-20 forwards Elkin Rivero, Luis Landázuri, and Juan David Obando have been called up.
Likely Verde formation
Harlen Castillo will guard the goal. The back line could feature Joan Castro, Simón García, Cesar Haydar, and Andrés Salazar. In midfield, Elkin Rivero and Luis Landazuri will be paired with Matheus Uribe and Juan Bauzá. Up front, Billy Arce and Andrés Sarmiento are expected to lead the attack.
Notes and outlook
The reserves delivered a strong showing in the win over Alianza, and barring Batista’s absence, the starting XI that beat Alianza could line up again. Winning is the objective to stay near the top of the Liga. A victory here would also boost confidence ahead of the cup clash with Sao Paulo in Brazil next Tuesday.
Commentary
Incorporating youth players such as Rivero, Landazuri, and Obando signals Nacional’s intent to balance experience with fresh talent, ensuring depth for a congested calendar. The club’s strategy appears aimed at maintaining domestic momentum while preserving energy for the upcoming international cup tie.
Summary
Atlético Nacional aims to solidify its position in the Clausura by beating Fortaleza CEIF, leveraging a lineup that blends youth and experience, and using this win to build confidence for the cup showdown against Sao Paulo in Brazil next week. Positive momentum and strategic player rotation could help sustain strong performances across competitions.