Nacional Clinches Championship Title for First Time Against Longtime Rival Medellín

Nacional Claims First Title Against Rival Medellín in Historic Classic

Atlético Nacional made history by defeating their eternal rival, Independiente Medellín, 1-0 in the Copa BetPlay final at Estadio Atanasio Girardot. This victory marked Nacional’s first official championship win over Medellín in the iconic Paisa derby.

The solitary goal came from Andrés Felipe Román, whose decisive strike secured the trophy and ended a title drought against Medellín that lasted more than two decades. This triumph allowed Nacional to erase the memory of their 2004 final loss to the same opponent.

By winning this cup, Atlético Nacional strengthened its status as Colombia’s most successful football club, now holding 37 official titles. They continue to lead ahead of historic competitors Millonarios and América de Cali, consolidating their dominance in national football.

For Independiente Medellín, the defeat extended their title drought to five years since their last Copa BetPlay win, also against Nacional. Furthermore, they have gone nine years without claiming the Colombian League title, deepening frustration among their fans after another final loss to their traditional adversary.

Although this trophy boosts Nacional’s trophy cabinet, it does not grant entry to international tournaments. Both teams had previously secured continental competition spots: Medellín for the Copa Libertadores and Nacional for the Copa Sudamericana. Therefore, this final was contested purely for pride, honor, and bragging rights in the fierce local rivalry.

Key highlights from the final:

1. Final score: Nacional 1, Medellín 0
2. Goal scorer: Andrés Felipe Román
3. Venue: Estadio Atanasio Girardot
4. Tournament: Copa BetPlay
5. Nacional’s total official titles reached 37
6. Medellín’s title drought extended to 5 years

This landmark victory adds a new chapter in the storied rivalry, resonating deeply with Nacional’s supporters. The result exemplifies the enduring competitiveness and passion embedded in the Paisa derby’s rich tradition.