The 2009 edition of the Colombian Copa Postobon starts on Wednesday, as
La Equidad of Bogotá begin their title defense while other, mostly
smaller teams are hungry for victory.
The Copa Postobon was first held last year, and is to follow the same schedule in its second edition.
The first stage consists of six groups, each containing six teams. These groups are based on where the clubs are located. For example, Group A consists of teams from the coast while Group B contains teams from the Medellín area.
This system has caused criticism in 2008, as some groups are undoubtedly easier to surrive than others.
The top two of each group proceeds to a knock-out phase. The winners of these six matches then advance to another knock-out stage, of which the three winners and the best loser go on to play in the semi finals.
The opening day of the tournament sees some interesting clashes. Atlético Nacional host Envigado, Millonarios face defending champions La Equidad and Deportivo Cali visit Pasto.
Last season, the Copa Postobon was mostly used for reserve players to show their skills. Changes shouldn’t be expected this year, with most likely empty stadiums and overenthusiastic narrators as result. But just maybe, people will begin showing an interest in the tournament.