Tolima’s Copa Sudamericana Journey: Group D Fight, Key Fixtures, and Qualification Threshold

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Vinotinto y oro will meet a pivotal second phase in the group stage, where every match is a chance to accumulate crucial points and shift the odds in their favor.

Sport Tolima’s journey in the Copa Sudamericana 2023 has seen its share of ups and downs during the opening three rounds, yet the team remains very much alive in Group D. With momentum on their side, they still hold a viable path to secure one of the two berths advancing to the next round, provided they maintain consistency and execute when it matters most.

El Pijao, after a start marked by wins, draws, and losses in the group phase, understands that the remaining fixtures are do-or-die battles. Under the guidance of Juan Cruz Real, the squad is expected to summon its strongest form as it returns to league duties and continues continental responsibilities. The coaching decision to lean into a higher tempo and tighter organization could prove decisive as the calendar tightens.

The Tolima group in the Copa Sudamericana 2023: rivals, calendar, fixtures, results and standings

How many points does Tolima need to qualify for the Copa Sudamericana?

From Ibagué, the schedule still calls for a demanding sequence: away games against Tigre and Sao Paulo, followed by a home date versus Puerto Cabello. Sitting in third place with 4 points on the board, Tolima is two points behind the Argentines and three behind the leaders, a gap that makes it clear that reaching at least six more points is essential to stay in the race and keep hopes alive for progression.

The team’s path remains firmly within their control, but it requires a blend of resilience, tactical discipline, and effective execution in the final third. With a balanced defense and a midfield capable of sustaining pressure, Tolima can tilt the group dynamics in their favor by collecting points in the upcoming fixtures, while also managing goal difference to improve tiebreaker scenarios should results hinge on late-stage outcomes.

Conmebol

While the chances of leading the group are less likely at this moment, Tolima can still mount a credible challenge for a top-two finish through the playoff route alongside Tigre. The immediate next matchday will be critical, as it offers a clear signal of whether the team can translate potential into points and maintain their momentum into the decisive stages of the competition.

Note: The information above reflects standings and implications from ongoing play as reported by Goal and subsequent analyses from club and tournament observers.

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