After a first round that mixed results, Popular faces the biggest test yet: the defining challenges ahead.
The current season has not been easy for Chilean clubs in the Copa Libertadores. The teams that advanced from earlier rounds struggled, and the emotional losses suffered by Magallanes and Curicó left only Colo Colo and Ñublense in the pursuit, with Colo Colo the defending champion and Ñublense the runner-up. For Colo Colo, the road ahead is unclear, and the big question remains how they can reach the final stages as they did in 2018 when Palmeiras knocked them out in the quarterfinals of a continental competition that always tests the strongest squads.
It is still early to calculate official odds, but if Popular repeats the first round performance, reaching the ultimate goal will be challenging. Historically, performances are shaped by pivotal moments: the Pereira draw, the win over Monagas in Macul, and the spirited road display against Boca Juniors in Santiago that stunned many and forced Gustavo Quinteros to reassess plans. Those moments illustrate how quickly a campaign in South America’s premier club tournament can swing, with momentum shifting in a heartbeat.
WHAT DOES COLO COLO NEED TO ADVANCE?
With 4 points from the current campaign and three games still on the schedule, the Eternal Champion must push toward the 10-point threshold to secure advancement.
Upcoming tests include a trip to Maturín on May 23, a home match at La Bombonera on June 6, and a date with Pereira on June 29. If the team wins its two home fixtures, the focus shifts to the road fixtures, and qualifying becomes increasingly likely. It remains highly probable that a top-16 finish in South American competition awaits, with a scenario needing seven points from the final three fixtures out of nine available to guarantee progression.
These strategic milestones are essential as Colo Colo navigates a demanding schedule against fellow continental competitors. The club’s ability to translate domestic form into strong results abroad will be a key determinant of whether they can mirror the success of past campaigns and secure a place among South America’s elite teams this season.
In summary, the path is clear but demanding. A steady climb in the next rounds, coupled with sharp performances away from home and effective game management in Santiago, could pave the way for Colo Colo to reach the knockout stages and potentially make a deep run in the Copa Libertadores once more.