Deportes Tolima and Boyacá Chicó played to a scoreless draw at the Estadio Manuel Murillo Toro in Ibagué on Saturday, October 3, 2026, during the 13th round of the Liga BetPlay II-2026. The match, which marked the debut of Luis Fernando Suárez as the coach of the home side, saw the hosts control possession and offensive attempts, while the visitors maintained a disciplined defensive structure to secure a point. The result was described as a “golden point” for the Tunja-based side, which demonstrated significant tactical order in their defensive third.
Impact on the Liga BetPlay Standings
The result leaves Deportes Tolima in the final spot of the top eight, reaching 18 points after 11 matches played. For Boyacá Chicó, the single point brings their total to 11 points from 10 games. This result holds significant implications for the relegation table, where Boyacá Chicó continues to compete closely with Jaguares and Cúcuta Deportivo. In other league action, Águilas Doradas secured a 2-0 victory over Jaguares de Córdoba, with Ricardo Márquez scoring from a penalty spot in the 90th minute and Eduard Arizalas sealing the win in the 90+7 minute.
David Agudelo Saves Prevent Tolima from Scoring
The match was characterized by a lack of finishing in the final third, particularly for the home side. Win Sports reported several pivotal saves by Boyacá Chicó goalkeeper David Agudelo, who prevented multiple scoring opportunities for Tolima. Notable moments included a “monumental” save by Agudelo in the 29th minute, a crucial stop in the 35th minute, and a double save in the 53rd minute that denied the home side a breakthrough. In the 64th minute, Tolima’s Jorge Cabezas Hurtado missed an opportunity, and in the 77th minute, a potential penalty appeal for Tolima was overruled due to an offside decision.
Severe Weather Damages Estadio Manuel Murillo Toro
The match proceeded as scheduled despite recent structural damage at the Estadio Manuel Murillo Toro caused by severe weather on Friday. Strong winds and rain resulted in the collapse of five metal advertising structures in the eastern grandstand, the detachment of several seats, and the misalignment of lighting reflectors. Felipe La Rota, manager of the Municipal Institute for Sports and Recreation of Ibagué (IMDRI), stated that contingency plans were activated to address the damage. The stadium had undergone a 13-day maintenance period prior to the match, which included improvements to the Bermuda grass playing surface, drainage systems, and electrical infrastructure, ensuring the venue remained operational for the fixture. Stadium administrator Adolfo Mora noted that recent rains helped maintain the grass texture, while crews verified the stadium’s electrical plants, giant screen, sound system, and locker rooms to ensure readiness for the final phase of the year.
Luis Fernando Suárez Returns to Deportes Tolima
The encounter served as the return of Luis Fernando Suárez to the Deportes Tolima bench after a 24-year absence. Previously, the team played to a 1-1 draw against América de Cali on September 20 and a 2-2 draw away at Fortaleza in the Bogotá stadium of Techo. The South stand remained restricted to individuals over the age of 12. Following the draw, Deportes Tolima remains tied to the competitive group fighting for the final playoff positions, while Boyacá Chicó focuses on accumulating points to improve their standing in the aggregate table.
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