Melgar Faces Tolima in Crucial Libertadores Clash Tonight

AREQUIPA, Peru — FBC Melgar and Deportes Tolima are set to clash tonight in a decisive second leg of the Copa Libertadores 2025 second qualifying round. The match will take place at the Estadio Monumental de la UNSA at 7:30 p.m. local time. Melgar aims to protect its 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Colombia, while Tolima seeks a comeback to keep its tournament hopes alive.

In their first encounter, Melgar secured a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to Kenji Cabrera’s goal. This result puts the Peruvian side in a favorable position, as a win or even a draw will suffice for them to advance to the next round.

Walter Ribonetto, head coach of Melgar, is expected to field a strong lineup, potentially including Carlos Cáceda in goal and a defensive line featuring Matías Lazo, Pier Barrios, Leonel González, and Nelson Cabanillas. Melgar’s midfield will likely comprise Horacio Orzán, Walter Tandazo, and Cristian Bordahacar, with Cabrera, Tomás Martínez, and Facundo Castro expected to lead the attack.

On the other hand, Tolima, managed by Ismael Rescalvo, must overcome the deficit and will need to deliver a top-performing lineup. Christopher Fiermarín is anticipated to start in goal, supported by defenders Cristian Arrieta, Julián Quiñones, Anderson Angulo, and Junior Hernández. The midfield will feature Cristian Trujillo, Bryan Rovira, Luis Miranda, and Alex Castro, while Kevin Pérez and Gonzalo Lencina will lead the front line.

This match proves crucial for both teams. “It’s a do-or-die game for us,” said Rescalvo. “We have to put in our best effort to turn this around.” Tolima faces the challenge of overcoming recent struggles in the Liga BetPlay, where they recorded two scoreless draws and a recent loss to América.

Meanwhile, Melgar heads into the match after a recent 2-1 victory against Alianza Atlético in the Liga 1, showing solid defensive and attacking capabilities. Ribonetto expressed confidence saying, “We know the importance of this match and will play at home with the support of our fans.”

Refereeing the match will be Carlos Benítez, assisted by Mialciades Saldívar and Roberto Cañete, with Ulises Mereles overseeing the VAR. The significance of this matchup cannot be overstated, as it determines which team secures a spot in the Copa Libertadores group stage.

The kickoff approaches with both teams prepared to lay it all on the line. Will Tolima flip the script in Arequipa, or will Melgar secure their place in the next round?