Bahia’s Copa Libertadores Hopes Dented After 1-0 Loss to Atlético Nacional

In a pivotal Copa Libertadores Group F clash, Bahia suffered a 1-0 defeat to Atlético Nacional on May 14, 2025, at the Estadio Atanasio Girardot in Medellín. This result sees Bahia relinquish the top spot in the group, placing their progression to the Round of 16 in jeopardy.

Match Overview: Viveros Secures Victory for Atlético Nacional

The match’s decisive moment came early in the second half. In the 46th minute, Kevin Viveros capitalized on a rebound after Bahia’s goalkeeper, Marcos Felipe, parried a close-range effort from Arce. Despite a VAR review for a potential handball by Arce, the goal stood, giving Atlético Nacional the lead.

Bahia struggled to find an equalizer, with their attacking efforts thwarted by a resolute Atlético Nacional defense. The Colombian side managed the game effectively, limiting Bahia’s opportunities and securing a crucial victory.

Group F Standings: Bahia’s Position Under Threat

Following this defeat, the Group F standings are as follows:

• Atlético Nacional: 9 points (3 wins, 2 losses)
• Bahia: 7 points (2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses)
• Internacional: 5 points (1 win, 2 draws, 1 loss)
• Nacional (URU): 4 points (1 win, 1 draw, 2 losses)

With Internacional and Nacional set to face each other on May 15, a win for either team could see Bahia drop out of the top two, complicating their path to the knockout stages.

Looking Ahead: Crucial Fixtures for Bahia

Domestic Challenge: Ba-Vi Derby

Before their final group stage match, Bahia turns attention to domestic competition, facing arch-rivals Vitória in the Ba-Vi derby on Sunday, May 18, at 4 PM (Brasília time) at Arena Fonte Nova. This match is not only significant for local bragging rights but also for maintaining momentum ahead of their crucial Libertadores fixture.

Final Group Stage Match: Bahia vs. Internacional

Bahia’s last group stage match in the Copa Libertadores is against fellow Brazilian side Internacional on May 28. This encounter is poised to be decisive in determining which teams advance to the Round of 16.

Watch the Match Highlights

For a detailed look at the match’s key moments, including Viveros’ goal, watch the highlights below:

Conclusion

Bahia’s loss to Atlético Nacional has significantly impacted their Copa Libertadores campaign, placing them in a precarious position within Group F. With their fate now partially out of their hands, the team must focus on securing a win against Internacional and hope for favorable results elsewhere.

What are your thoughts on Bahia’s performance? Do you believe they can still progress to the Round of 16? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the discussion!