Tolima exhibited a strong performance on home turf, triumphing over Junior with a score of 2-0 in their sixth match of Group A, conducted at the Manuel Murillo Toro Stadium. Gonzalo Lencina opened the scoring for Tolima just 4 minutes into the first half, followed by Adrián Parra extending the lead at the 16th minute of the same period.
Junior’s team, under the guidance of César Farías, attempted to capitalize on opportunities, notably a powerful shot from Álex Castro in the 81st minute that struck the post, coming close to changing the tide.
Álex Castro was named the man of the match, showcasing his abilities with 2 effective passes and targeting the goal three times. Gonzalo Lencina also stood out, scoring one goal and taking four shots at the opposing net.
Tolima’s coach Ismael Rescalvo deployed a 4-4-2 formation, which featured Cristopher Fiermarín in goal; Yhormar Hurtado, Julián Quiñones, Anderson Angulo, and Junior Hernández in defense; with Kevin Pérez, Juan Pablo Nieto, Brayan Rovira, and Álex Castro in midfield; and Gonzalo Lencina alongside Adrián Parra up front.
On the other side, Junior lined up in a 4-5-1 formation, led by Jefersson Martínez in goal. His defensive unit comprised Jhomier Guerrero, José Cuenú, Fabián Ángel, and Jhon Navia; while Yimmi Chará, Didier Moreno, Jordan Barrera, Yani Quintero, and Bryan Castrillón filled the midfield and Steven Rodríguez operated as the lone striker.
The match was officiated by referee Luis Delgado Hurtado.
Substitutions for Tolima
45’ 2T – Yhormar Hurtado replaced by Cristian Arrieta, Anderson Angulo for Jhon Quiñónes, Kevin Pérez for Jersson González, and Jhomier Guerrero for Yeferson Moreno.
62’ 2T – Juan Pablo Nieto was substituted for Víctor Reyes.
70’ 2T – Gonzalo Lencina left the pitch for Jeinner Fuentes.
Cautions for Tolima
36’ 1T – Anderson Angulo received a yellow card for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Substitutions for Junior
69’ 2T – Didier Moreno was replaced by Miller Bacca.
74’ 2T – Jordan Barrera was substituted for Joel Canchimbo, José Cuenú for Jose Caicedo, and Yani Quintero for Jhon Vélez.
Cautions for Junior
37’ 1T – José Cuenú was cautioned for unsportsmanlike conduct; 35’ 2T – Jose Caicedo received a card for holding an opponent to prevent progress; 45’ 2T – Steven Rodríguez was shown a yellow card for unsportsmanlike conduct.