Two draws for Once Caldas and Deportes Tolima has left them with differing prospects as the group stage of the Copa Libertadores approaches the halfway point.
Once Caldas tied 1-1 in Mexico against San Luis, a result that does no favor for either team as they occupy the bottom two spots in Group 1, both having played one more game than those above them.
Wason Renteria put the visitors ahead in just the third minute after latching onto a long through-ball before squeezing the ball under the onrushing goalkeeper.
Michael Arroyo’s free kick 15 minutes later restored parity for the home side, although the well-struck shot needed the help of some atrocious goalkeeping to find the back of the net.
The result leaves Once Caldas with only two points from three games and facing an early exit from the competition.
Deportes Tolima have been left with slightly better prospects after their 0-0 draw at home to Brazilian giants Cruzeiro, who are considered as one of the favorites for the tournament.
Tolima may be left to rue Wilmer Medina’s missed penalty in the 76th minute in a match they dominated for large parts, although the draw still leaves them in second place in Group 7, albeit having played one game more than those below them.
The next round of matches for both sides will take place on March 15 and 16. Colombia’s final entrant, Junior Barranquilla, currently top Group 2 after two games and play Bolivian side Oriente Petrolero March 8.
