Colo-Colo are already out of the running for even a Copa Sudamericana play-off spot, while Atlético Bucaramanga still have a realistic chance of reaching the Copa Libertadores knockout stage.
The struggles facing Colo-Colo are evident even in their domestic campaign, where they currently sit 11th out of 16 in the national standings. Despite having three games in hand, they have already dropped nearly half the available points—an alarming trend. In the Copa Libertadores, their situation worsened after losing by forfeit at home to Fortaleza, a setback compounded by a five-match ban from international fixtures without spectators following the tragic deaths of two individuals.
Atlético Bucaramanga will advance to the Copa Libertadores play-offs if they win and Fortaleza lose to Racing. The latter scenario is plausible, given Fortaleza Esporte Clube face a tough away trip. However, a draw in the other match would be of no use to Atlético Bucaramanga, given their inferior goal difference.
Can Atlético Bucaramanga deliver when it matters most? The absence of home support for Colo-Colo removes one of their traditional advantages. In the reverse fixture, Atlético Bucaramanga failed to secure a home win, but this time, even a draw would be enough to keep their hopes alive.
