Atlético Nacional will open Matchday 19 of Liga Betplay-1 this Friday, May 1, against Once Caldas in Manizales. Although both teams have already secured their place in the playoffs, the clash at Palogrande will serve to fine-tune things. Coach Diego Arias plans to use an alternate lineup to protect his key players ahead of the finals, with Juan Manuel Rengifo confirmed out due to suspension.

Despite being the outright leaders with 40 points and boasting an impressive 74% performance rate, Arias is facing dissatisfaction from part of the fanbase. Supporters are demanding more attractive football, a pressure that has grown after the recent setback against Pereira. For the coach, this end of the phase is key to restoring internal calm.

With first place guaranteed, Nacional await Sunday’s draw to find out their quarterfinal opponent. The Verdolaga side will look to close out the regular phase with a win that settles things down and strengthens their status as title favorites.

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