Atlético Nacional Suffers Crushing Defeat Against Tolima, Playoff Hopes Dwindle
Atlético Nacional’s aspirations for the 2022 women’s League took a notable hit after a disheartening 1-3 loss too Deportes Tolima at home. the Ibagué side dominated the match, showcasing clinical finishing and tactical prowess throughout. Génesis Daniela Guarnizo, Laura Viviana Tamayo, and Paola constante found the back of the net for Tolima, while Mariana Sastoque managed a consolation goal for the purslane.
The match began with Atlético Nacional displaying an aggressive intent, eager to bounce back from previous away defeats against Llaneros and Real Santander. Early attempts from Lina Martínez and Lorena Bedoya hinted at their determination, but Tolima’s defense held firm.
However,Tolima struck first in the 12th minute. Guarnizo capitalized on a corner kick, expertly positioning herself at the far post to give her team the lead.
Undeterred, Nacional pressed forward, with Kelly Quiceno coming close to equalizing in the 21st minute. Lady Andrade, returning from suspension, threatened with a free kick that narrowly missed the target. Quiceno continued to be a menace, forcing a save from the Tolima goalkeeper with a low shot.
The first half concluded with both teams battling for midfield control. Nacional created several promising opportunities, but Tolima’s organized defense and efficient counter-attacks kept them at bay.In stoppage time, Guarnizo nearly doubled Tolima’s lead with a powerful shot that rattled the post.
The second half saw Nacional intensify their efforts to level the score. Quiceno remained a constant threat, testing the Tolima defense with a shot early in the half. Elizabeth Carabalí also made her presence felt, earning a yellow card for a strong challenge. Quiceno continued to push forward, her free kick in the 15th minute striking the post.
Despite Nacional’s persistence, Tolima extended their lead in the 21st minute. Laura Viviana Tamayo’s expertly taken free kick sailed past the outstretched arms of goalkeeper Micheel Rengifo.
Mariana Sastoque finally pulled one back for Nacional in the 28th minute, capitalizing on a rebound from a free kick just outside the Tolima penalty area.
However, Tolima sealed their victory in the 43rd minute. Paola Constante seized upon a defensive error by Rengifo, calmly slotting the ball into the net from mid-range.
The final whistle confirmed a disappointing defeat for Atlético Nacional, leaving them with three losses in their first four matches. Their playoff hopes are now hanging by a thread.
Looking ahead, Atlético Nacional will face a tough challenge against América in Cali, while Deportes Tolima will host Atlético Bucaramanga in Ibagué.
“Tough Road Ahead”: Former Colombian National Team Captain Weighs in on Atlético nacional’s Struggles
After a crushing defeat at the hands of Deportes tolima, Atlético Nacional’s playoff dreams seem to be fading fast. Today,we’re joined by former Colombian National Team Captain,
Catalina Usme,to dissect the match and discuss what lies ahead for the struggling team.
Welcome, Catalina! Let’s dive right in. Atlético Nacional showed promising attack early on, but Tolima’s defense proved impenetrable. what did you make of Nacional’s approach, and where do you think they went wrong tactically?
Catalina Usme: “Good morning! Thanks for having me. I think Atlético Nacional came out aggressive, but against a well-organized team like Tolima, aggression alone isn’t enough. You need a strategy. Tolima anticipated Nacional’s attacks well, using thier compactness in midfield to neutralize the threat. I felt Nacional was too predictable offensively, relying heavily on individual brilliance rather than a cohesive team effort.”
Indeed, Tolima’s counter-attacks were clinical.Was there a specific turning point in the match where you felt the momentum truly shifted in Tolima’s favor?
Catalina Usme: “Definitely the first goal. Guarnizo’s strike was well-taken, but the build-up showcased Tolima’s tactical awareness.They exploited space on the flank and delivered a pinpoint cross.From there, Tolima grew in confidence. The missed chances by Nacional piled on the pressure, and Tolima capitalized on the opportunities that presented themselves.”
Atlético Nacional was trailing by two goals in the second half. We saw Mariana Sastoque score a consolation goal, but the team ultimately lacked the firepower to mount a comeback. What aspects of their game need immediate attention if they want to turn things around?
Catalina Usme: “They need to rediscover their attacking identity. Yes, Kelly Quiceno was perilous, but she needed more support. The midfield needs to be more creative in supplying dangerous passes and finding space between the lines. Plus, they need to be more clinical in front of goal.
Wasted chances are becoming a recurring theme and it’s costing them valuable points.”
With three losses in their first four matches, the playoff picture is looking bleak for Atlético Nacional. Do you think they can still salvage their season? What needs to change for them to find their footing?
Catalina Usme: “It’s a tough road ahead, no doubt.But it’s not impractical.
They need to fix the tactical inconsistencies and build a more cohesive team spirit. This upcoming match against América will be crucial. They need to show resilience and a fighting spirit. If they can find that spark, they can still turn things around. But time is running out.”
Thank you for your insightful analysis,Catalina. We’ll be keeping a close eye on Atlético Nacional’s performance in the coming weeks.
What do you think, readers? Can Atlético Nacional overcome this challenging start and secure a playoff spot? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
