Atlético Nacional Faces Bucaramanga in Superliga Final First Leg

MEDELLÍN, Colombia — Atlético Nacional and Atlético Bucaramanga will clash in the first leg of the 2025 Superliga final on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. local time at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium. The match marks the first official game for Nacional’s new coach, Javier Gandolfi, who has spent the past week preparing his squad for the high-stakes encounter.

Nacional, the reigning champions of the 2024 Liga BetPlay, confirmed their lineup ahead of the match, with key players like goalkeeper Kevin Mier and midfielder Jhon Duque expected to lead the team. However, the squad will be without recent signings Marino Hinestroza and Alfredo Morelos, who are still finalizing their contracts.

Bucaramanga, making their first-ever Superliga final appearance, will rely on their defensive solidity and the leadership of captain Juan Camilo Pérez. The team, managed by Florentín, is also preparing for a busy year that includes participation in the CONMEBOL Libertadores.

Nacional’s lineup features a mix of experienced players and rising stars. Mier, the team’s captain, has a perfect record in finals, having won all five he has played with the club. The defense will likely include Felipe Aguirre and Andrés Salazar, while the midfield will be anchored by Duque, the most valuable player in Colombian football according to Transfermarkt, valued at 3.5 million euros.

Up front, Nacional will look to Jefferson Duque, who has been a reliable replacement for Morelos. Duque’s speed and finishing ability were on display in Nacional’s recent 4-0 victory over Once Caldas, where he contributed significantly to the win.

This final is a chance for Nacional to secure their fourth Superliga title, having previously won in 2012, 2016, and 2023. Bucaramanga, on the other hand, aims to make history by claiming their first-ever Superliga trophy.

The second leg of the final will take place next week, with the aggregate winner lifting the trophy. Fans from both teams are expected to pack the stadiums, creating an electric atmosphere for this highly anticipated clash.