Deportes Tolima will close the fourth round of the Liga BetPlay this Monday, February 2, 2026, with a visit to Bogotá to face Internacional at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo, with kickoff scheduled for 6:10 p.m. This match carries significant importance beyond just league standings, addressing an urgent need: improving the team’s disciplinary conduct under head coach Lucas González.
The ‘Pijao’ squad arrives at this match after a dramatic 2-2 draw against Independiente Medellín. This encounter not only showcased the team’s competitive spirit but also highlighted a recurring issue—Tolima has accumulated four red cards in just three games, raising concerns among the coaching staff and impacting the team’s overall performance.
Addressing this disciplinary issue is crucial for maintaining team cohesion and avoiding the need to constantly fight against the odds, as witnessed in recent matches.
Forced Changes and Potential Debuts
For the upcoming game in Bogotá, Lucas González will be without goalkeeper Neto Volpi, who was excluded from the lineup due to precautionary measures and load management following some physical discomfort experienced against Medellín. As a result, it is likely that Luis Márquinez will make his official debut in goal for Deportes Tolima.
Another exciting addition is the call-up of young player Neifer Sánchez, an offensive talent from Barranquilla capable of playing as a winger or forward, who is set to receive his first opportunity of the semester with the first team.
Additionally, Ibagué players Shean Barbosa and Víctor Reyes have been included in the lineup to replace Yhormar Hurtado and Élan Ricardo, both of whom were sent off in the previous match. This restructuring reflects the coaching staff’s adaptability in response to the team’s challenges.
As Deportes Tolima prepares for this critical match, fans are hopeful for a disciplined performance that could turn the tide in their favor, steering the team towards a more successful campaign.
