Junior Aims for Last Chance at Playoff Edge Against Nacional

MEDELLÍN, Colombia — Club Junior will face Atlético Nacional this Sunday at 4 p.m. in a critical match for their playoff positioning in the Liga BetPlay. Currently, five teams, including Junior, are vying for the elusive ‘invisible point’ that could enhance their chances in the upcoming playoff rounds.

Coach César Farías has assembled a familiar lineup for this match, featuring key players such as Carlos Bacca, Teo Gutiérrez, and Yimmi Chará. Notably, Andrés Colorado returns after being sidelined since March, while Guillermo Paiva also makes his comeback after recovering from an injury.

“We are focused on winning and showcasing our game,” said Edwin Herrera, Junior’s ambidextrous defender. He is set to play alongside José Cuenú, replacing the suspended Daniel Rivera, and Fabián Ángel will fill in for Didier Moreno. Both Rivera and Moreno are unavailable due to accumulation of yellow cards.

The match promises to be intense, given the history between the two teams and the stakes involved. Previous encounters have been marred by off-pitch violence, prompting calls for better security this time. The last meeting was halted due to disturbances in the stands, but this Sunday’s match intends to shift the focus back to the game itself.

Nacional will also field a strong team, missing only Matheus Uribe due to tactical decisions and Edwin Cardona due to suspension. Fans are hopeful for a match filled with quality football, avoiding the chaos of their last encounter.

With both teams eager to secure a spot in the playoff, this clash at Atanasio Girardot Stadium is set to be a thrilling spectacle for the fans.