San Cristóbal, Venezuela – Deportes Tolima secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Deportivo Táchira in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Phase 2 on Tuesday, February 19, 2026. The lone goal, scored by Kelvin Flórez in the 65th minute, gives Tolima a significant advantage heading into the return leg. The match, played at the Estadio Polideportivo de Pueblo Nuevo, saw a tactical battle unfold, with Tolima ultimately proving more clinical in front of goal.
The result marks an important step for Tolima in their quest to reach the group stage of South America’s premier club competition. While Táchira showed moments of promise, they were unable to uncover an equalizer, leaving them with an uphill battle in the second leg. The win provides a boost for the Colombian side as they aim to advance further in the tournament.
Flórez Strikes for Tolima
Kelvin Flórez’s goal arrived in the 65th minute, breaking the deadlock and giving Tolima the lead. According to Futbolred, Flórez “arrived by the second post to push it in and score the 1-0.” The goal came as a result of strong build-up play, with Cristian Arrieta providing the assist. The moment shifted the momentum firmly in Tolima’s favor.
¡ARRIBA TOLIMA! Kelvin Flórez llegó por el segundo palo para empujarla y anotar el 1-0 vs. Táchira en la Fase 2.📺 Mirá TODA la CONMEBOL #Libertadores por #DisneyPlus Plan Premium pic.twitter.com/Rh6Xqsj2xc
&mdash. SportsCenter (@SC_ESPN) February 20, 2026
Tactical Approaches and Key Performances
Álvaro Recoba, the manager of Táchira, deployed a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Jesús Camargo in goal, and a defensive line of Delvin Alfonzo, Guillermo Fratta, Juan Sanchez, and Lautaro Lusnig. The midfield consisted of Carlos Calzadilla, Agustín Pérez Siri, Carlos Sosa, Gustavo Lozano, and Adalberto Peñaranda, with Rodrigo Pollero leading the attack. Tolima, under Lucas González, responded with a similar 4-5-1 setup, anchored by Neto Volpi in goal, and a defense of Cristian Arrieta, Jan Ángulo, Anderson Angulo, and Junior Hernández. Cristian Trujillo, Juan Pablo Nieto, Jersson González, Adrián Parra, and Edwar López formed the midfield, with Luis Sandoval up front.
Juan Pablo Nieto of Tolima had a particularly strong performance, completing 110 passes and making 12 tackles, demonstrating his influence in midfield. Adrián Parra also contributed effectively, completing 83 passes, making 7 tackles, and attempting 2 shots.
Match Details and Disciplinary Action
The match, officiated by Hernán Heras Acosta, saw several yellow cards issued. Luis González of Táchira and Rodrigo Pollero both received cautions in the second half, as did Lautaro Lusnig and Delvin Alfonzo. Anderson Angulo of Tolima was also booked. The game concluded with a final score of Deportivo Táchira 0-1 Deportes Tolima. According to El País, the match ended at 95 minutes.
Late in the second half, Táchira made a series of substitutions, bringing on José Balza and Pablo Camacho for Carlos Sosa and Lautaro Lusnig, respectively. Tolima responded with changes of their own, introducing Sebastián Guzmán and Jader Valencia for Cristian Trujillo and Adrián Parra, as well as Kelvin Flórez and Brayan Rovira for Jersson González and Juan Pablo Nieto.
Looking Ahead
The second leg is scheduled for Thursday, February 26th, and will be a pivotal encounter. Tolima will aim to defend their lead and secure their place in the next round, while Táchira will need to overcome the deficit and perform strongly at home to stay alive in the competition. The return fixture promises to be a tense and exciting affair as both teams battle for a spot in the group stage of the Copa Libertadores.
What are your thoughts on Tolima’s chances of advancing? Share your predictions in the comments below!