The stage is set for the 2026 Copa Libertadores group stage! Independiente Santa Fe, Junior de Barranquilla, Deportes Tolima and Independiente Medellín – the latter two qualifying through the preliminary rounds – now grasp their paths in South America’s premier club competition, following the draw held in Paraguay. The tournament, organized by CONMEBOL, promises a challenging road for all four Colombian sides.
Medellín Drawn into Group A
Independiente Medellín, who advanced past Liverpool and Juventud las Piedras in the qualifying stages, finds themselves in Group A alongside reigning champions Flamengo of Brazil, Estudiantes de la Plata from Argentina, and Cusco of Peru. This group presents an immediate test for El Poderoso de la Montaña, facing a formidable opponent in Flamengo, who are looking to continue their dominance in the competition.
- Flamengo (BRA)
- Estudiantes (ARG)
- Cusco (PER)
- Ind. Medellín (COL)
Deportes Tolima in Group B
Deportes Tolima also navigated the preliminary rounds, overcoming Deportivo Táchira and O’Higgins, to secure their place in Group B. They will face a challenging set of opponents including Club Nacional of Uruguay, Universitario de Deportes of Peru, and Coquimbo Unido of Chile. This group offers a mix of experienced international competitors and rising teams, making for a competitive dynamic.
- Nacional (URU)
- Universitario (PER)
- Coquimbo Unido (CHI)
- Dep. Tolima (COL)
Santa Fe Faces a Tough Test in Group E
Independiente Santa Fe faces a difficult assignment in Group E, traveling south to compete against Peñarol of Uruguay, Corinthians of Brazil, and Platense of Argentina. Known as Los Leones, Santa Fe will need to be at their best to overcome these established South American powerhouses. This group is widely considered one of the most challenging draws for the Colombian teams.
- Peñarol (URU)
- Corinthians (BRA)
- Santa Fe (COL)
- Platense (ARG)
Junior de Barranquilla in Group F
Junior de Barranquilla will play their group stage matches at the Jaime Morón Stadium in Cartagena, due to ongoing renovations at the Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez. They’ve been drawn into Group F with Palmeiras of Brazil – runners-up in the previous edition – Cerro Porteño of Paraguay, and Sporting Cristal of Peru, who also came through the preliminary rounds. Facing the Brazilian side, who lost to Flamengo in the 2025 final, will be a key challenge for the Colombian outfit.
- Palmeiras (BRA)
- Cerro Porteño (PAR)
- Junior (COL)
- Sporting Cristal (PER)
Complete Copa Libertadores Group Stage Draw
- Group A: Flamengo (BRA) – Estudiantes (ARG) – Cusco (PER) – Ind. Medellín (COL)
- Group B: Nacional (URU) – Universitario (PER) – Coquimbo Unido (CHI) – Dep. Tolima (COL)
- Group C: Fluminense (BRA) – Bolívar (BOL) – Dep. La Guaira (VEN) – Ind. Rivadavia (ARG)
- Group D: Boca Juniors (ARG) – Cruzeiro (BRA) – U. Católica (CHI) – Barcelona (ECU)
- Group E: Peñarol (URU) – Corinthians (BRA) – Santa Fe (COL) – Platense (ARG)
- Group F: Palmeiras (BRA) – Cerro Porteño (PAR) – Junior (COL) – Sporting Cristal (PER)
- Group G: LDU Quito (ECU) – Lanús (ARG) – Always Ready (BOL) – Mirassol (BRA)
- Group H: Independiente del Valle (ECU) – Libertad (PAR) – Rosario Central (ARG) – Univ. Central (VEN)
Key Dates for the Copa Libertadores 2026
- Matchday 1: April 7, 8, and 9
- Matchday 2: April 14, 15, and 16
- Matchday 3: April 28, 29, and 30
- Matchday 4: May 5, 6, and 7
- Matchday 5: May 19, 20, and 21
- Matchday 6: May 26, 27, and 28
CONMEBOL will publish the complete fixture list in the coming days. All four Colombian teams will initiate their campaigns playing at home. The final is scheduled for November 28th at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Uruguay. The competition promises a thrilling spectacle for fans across the continent, and the Colombian clubs will be aiming to make a significant impact.
The Copa Libertadores is more than just a tournament; it’s a symbol of South American footballing pride. For teams like Independiente Medellín, securing a spot after navigating the preliminary rounds is a testament to their resilience and ambition. The group stage will undoubtedly provide a platform for emerging talents and showcase the passion that defines the beautiful game in South America.
What do you think of the draws for the Colombian teams? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
