💪Everything ready: Atlético Nacional kick off the play-offs | OneFootball

This Saturday at 4:00 p.m., Atlético Nacional will take the first step in the Liga BetPlay quarter-finals when they visit Internacional de Bogotá. The first leg, to be played at the Metropolitano de Techo stadium and broadcast on Win Sports+, marks the start of a decisive stage in which the Antioquia-based side seeks redemption after its recent elimination from the Copa Sudamericana.

A history of parity and pedigree

The matchup has a long tradition of balance. From the previous 48 matches (including the home side’s period as La Equidad), Nacional has 18 wins compared to 16 for its rival. Although the head-to-head record is even, the "Verde" comes in with the momentum of having won the last three meetings and the memory of beating the capital club in the 2007 and 2011 finals. However, not everything is positive: the team confirmed the significant loss of Dairon Asprilla, who will undergo knee surgery this Monday.

Strategy and security in Bogotá

Coach Diego Arias emphasized the seriousness with which they are approaching this challenge, while home manager Ricardo Valiño said he will not betray his playing style despite the opponent’s pedigree. Due to the stadium’s limited capacity, authorities have imposed strict restrictions: fans wearing Atlético Nacional clothing or carrying its flags will not be allowed in, a measure officially accepted by the Verdolaga club to guarantee the safety of the event.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

📸 JAIME SALDARRIAGA - AFP or licensors