The final matchday of the Liga BetPlay’s phase “todos contra todos” is set for this Sunday. The excitement centers on the battle for the last two playoff spots, which will determine the new champion. However, the intensity of emotions contrasts sharply with the quality of play this semester.
Even Atlético Nacional, comfortably at the top of the standings, faces criticism regarding its performance. The surprising success of Deportivo Pasto has caught the attention, as they continue to compete fiercely for playoff spots.
Declining Performance in Colombian Football
The drop in quality is glaring, particularly evident in the teams’ performances on the international stage. Currently, only Deportes Tolima has a chance to progress in Conmebol tournaments, with others exhibiting worrying trends.
The recent loss of América de Cali to Tigre—a team that hadn’t won in twelve consecutive matches—illustrates the challenges faced. Coach David González from América acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “We lacked understanding of the competition we were playing in and the level of our opponent.”
Factors Contributing to the Decline
Several factors have contributed to the decline in the quality of football in Colombia:
- Coaching Instability: This semester has seen the dismissal of nine coaches, with the Jaguares changing coaches twice.
- Lack of Financial Resources: Many teams struggle with insufficient funding, impacting overall performance.
- Subpar Facilities: Numerous teams lack adequate training venues and stadiums, affecting gameplay quality.
Diego Barragán, a former physical trainer champion with Nacional, emphasized the need for better player development. “If there are no youth divisions, where will we source our players?” he pointed out.
Impact of Veteran Players and Refereeing Issues
Aging stars dominate the league’s spotlight, yet not all veterans can keep pace. While players like Dayro Moreno and Hugo Rodallega still perform exceptionally, their longevity remains uncertain.
The refereeing standards have also come under scrutiny. Scandals have plagued every matchday, and the introduction of VAR has only intensified discussions. Former referee José Borda noted the deficiencies in referee training and calls for transparency, including the need for published audio from VAR decisions.
Conclusion
The Liga BetPlay faces numerous challenges, from declining performance levels to refereeing controversies. As the season approaches its climax, addressing these issues is crucial for the future of Colombian football and its growing emotional landscape.
