Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Colombian Primera A match.
Heading into the fifth round, both Once Caldas and Atlético Nacional still had slim hopes of topping their group to reach the final. However, heading into the last round, neither team remains in contention. Both Once Caldas and Atlético Nacional suffered defeats in their most recent outings.
Once Caldas
The team sits at the bottom of the group with only three points and is yet to register a win. This comes as little surprise, given that Once Caldas only narrowly secured a play-off berth in the closing stages of the regular season. They struggled even at home, managing to score just once in two matches.
Atlético Nacional
Atlético Nacional have also found it difficult to convert chances, scoring just three goals in five matches. Their sole victory came on the road against Independiente Santa Fe, a team still in the hunt for a place in the final, with a 2:1 result. Both teams had a congested spring schedule due to their involvement in continental competitions. Although the group stage concluded just before the Apertura play-offs began, the effects of fatigue remain evident.
Once Caldas vs Atlético Nacional Prediction
Atlético Nacional appear the stronger side in this encounter. They are the current Clausura title holders and have recently progressed from the Copa Libertadores group stage. While we estimate a 70% chance of their success, the margin is not overwhelming, so we will back them with a neutral handicap.
