The stage is set for a continental “Superclasico.” CONMEBOL has confirmed that Colombian giants Atletico Nacional and Millonarios will face off on March 4 in the preliminary round of the 2026 Copa Sudamericana. The single-elimination match will take place at the Atanasio Girardot stadium in Medellin, with a penalty shootout deciding the winner if the score is level after 90 minutes.
This marks only the second time the two historic rivals have met in the tournament; in 2007, Millonarios advanced after a thrilling 3-2 aggregate victory. For Nacional, recently crowned Copa BetPlay champions, this represents their return to the competition after a six-year absence and their tenth participation overall. Millonarios enters the tournament for the ninth time, looking to improve on past semifinal appearances in 2007 and 2012.
The schedule also confirmed a clash between America de Cali and Atletico Bucaramanga on March 5 at the Pascual Guerrero Stadium.
Millonarios and Nacional strengthen their squads for the Copa Sudamericana showdown
As the showdown approaches, both clubs are actively reshaping their squads for the 2026 campaign. The “Ambassador” is undergoing a significant restructuring to improve consistency. The club has confirmed the arrival of Carlos Darwin Quintero, Mateo Garcia, and Sebastian Valencia. Reports from Win Sports indicate that Chilean midfielder Rodrigo Ureña is on the verge of joining, with an agreement reportedly in its final stages.
Millonarios’ exit door has also been busy, with key names leaving, including Juan Pablo Vargas, goalkeeper Ivan Mauricio Arboleda, and Juan Jose Ramirez. Other departures include Neyser Villarreal, Bruno Savio, Cristian Cañozales, and Ramiro Brochero.
The “Verdolaga” is also active, aiming to defend their Copa Colombia title and compete internationally. According to reports from Habla Deportes and Felipe Sierra, the club is targeting World Cup veteran Luis Fernando Muriel. Currently with Orlando City, the 34-year-old striker could return to Colombia as the MLS side looks to free up a Designated Player slot.
The club has confirmed the departure of Joan Castro. However, they face the potential loss of key starters. Striker Alfredo Morelos could return to Santos as his loan expires on Dec. 31, while winger Marino Hinestroza is reportedly negotiating with Boca Juniors. Additionally, Nacional of Uruguay has expressed interest in starting fullbacks Andres Roman and Camilo Candido.
Match schedule:
- Atletico Nacional vs. Millonarios
- Date: Wednesday, March 4.
- Time: 7:30 p.m.
- Venue: Atanasio Girardot, Medellin.
- America de Cali vs. Atletico Bucaramanga
- Date: Thursday, March 5.
- Time: 7:30 p.m.
- Venue: Pascual Guerrero, Cali.