Junior de Barranquilla crowned itself the Liga BetPlay I-2026 champion on June 8, 2026, securing its 12th star in Colombian football history. The «Tiburónes» defeated Atlético Nacional 3-1 on aggregate despite losing the return match 1-0 in Medellín. This victory marks Junior’s second consecutive title, following their Liga BetPlay 2025-II championship.
Dominant First Leg Sets the Tone
Junior delivered a commanding performance in the first leg at Estadio Romelio Martínez in Barranquilla, crushing Atlético Nacional 3-0. The away win by Nacional in the second match at Estadio Atanasio Girardot proved insufficient against the overwhelming advantage from the first game. Goalkeeper Mauro Silveira anchored Junior’s defense throughout the final series.
Alfredo Arias Leads Historic Back-to-Back Championship
Coach Alfredo Arias guided Junior to this prestigious bicampeonato, continuing his successful tenure with the club. The team advanced through the tournament by defeating Once Caldas in quarterfinals and Independiente Santa Fe in semifinals. Junior finished second in the Todos Contra Todos stage before capturing this championship.
This championship earns Junior a berth in the 2027 Copa Libertadores as Colombia’s representative. The victory solidifies Junior’s status as one of Colombia’s most successful football clubs with 12 national titles. Barranquilla celebrates yet again as the Tiburón returns to the top of Colombian football.
Credit: Liga Betplay DIMAYOR
