Deportes Tolima faced yet another disappointment as they succumbed to Atlético Nacional, losing 0-2 and effectively ending their campaign for the Liga BetPlay title on December 22, 2024. The match, held at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium, witnessed Tolima having brief glimpses of hope, especially with the introduction of Yeison Guzmán through a pivotal penalty kick.
After the referee, under VAR advisement, determined there was a handball by Aguirre inside the area, Guzmán seized the opportunity to equalize what had been a 2-0 deficit following Nacional's goals from Alfredo Morelos and Andrés Felipe Román. Opting for what some termed as a risky Panenka-style shot, Guzmán attempted to delicately lift the ball over goalkeeper David Ospina. Unfortunately for Tolima, Ospina anticipated the shot perfectly, saving it and keeping the scoreline intact.
David González, head coach of Deportes Tolima, defended Guzmán and emphasized the experience and talent of his player just after the match. "Verily, Yeison is a player of remarkable caliber and significant experience. He had previously executed the same penalty he aimed for this time without anyone questioning his method then; they hailed him as brilliant," González stated. He also took the opportunity to refute criticism directed at Guzmán for his approach to the penalty. "Sometimes, changes can affect outcomes, but we can't question what we can't change now. All we can do is focus on future opportunities. Yeison has made us proud numerous times with his goals and performances, and I trust he can rise from this moment as well," he added.
Many fans expressed frustration post-match, feeling Guzmán could have shifted the game’s dynamics had he converted the penalty, which made it 2-1 at the time. Instead, the miss seemed to punctuate the mismatch of this final, as Tolima struggled to maintain any pressure on Nacional. "Who knows what would have changed if it had gone differently? Certainly, the goal was significant, but it is futile to dwell on it now," González said, emphasizing the unpredictability of football outcomes.
Despite the allure of the coveted trophy eluding them again, González expressed pride in his squad's overall performance throughout the season. "Even with this loss, we should focus on our achievements, like qualifying for Copa Libertadores, and being leaders of the season’s overall standings. It’s imperative we build from here and strive again for success,” he continued.
He also reflected on their ambitions moving forward, insisting, "This team is more than just players; we're family. Every contribution toward reaching this point has been invaluable. We'll take this moment to rally together and plan for our future, which is undoubtedly bright and promising.”
González's comments highlighted the fundamental belief he has placed not only in Guzmán but also within his team as they regroup and re-evaluate their strategies after coming so close yet again.
The Liga BetPlay final was not only a test of skill but also of mental resilience, and González reiterated there is no sense of despair within the squad. He concluded, "There’s nothing to feel helpless about here. We've got to take this experience and come back more determined than ever. I assure our fans, we’re not done. We’ll strive for greatness and aim for more victories.”
