Atlético Nacional Wins 18th Title; Juárez Leads Historic Double with 2-0 Victory Over Tolima

Dec 23, 2024, 01:03 AM

Atlético Nacional secured their 18th Colombian league title by defeating Deportes Tolima 2-0 in the second leg of the Liga BetPlay 2024-II final on December 22, winning 3-1 on aggregate. Under the leadership of Mexican coach Efraín Juárez, Atlético Nacional achieved a historic double, adding the league championship to their earlier Copa Colombia triumph—the first time since 2013. Goals from Alfredo Morelos and Andrés Román at the Estadio Atanasio Girardot sealed the victory, amid a remarkable atmosphere created by the home supporters. Goalkeeper David Ospina played a crucial role by saving a Panenka-style penalty from Yeison Guzmán in the 65th minute, maintaining the clean sheet. Juárez expressed his emotions after the match, stating, "Fueron cuatro meses de no dormir, de llorar. Lloraba por injusticias, pero siempre me las guardé." His success marks the first time in 50 years that a non-South American coach has won the Colombian league, and he becomes the first Mexican to achieve this feat. Atlético Nacional's victory also secures their qualification for the 2025 Copa Libertadores.