Atlético Nacional beat Internacional 3-1 this Thursday in the fourth round of Group F in the Copa Libertadores, which allowed them to climb to second place, just one point behind Bahía, and put them in the fight for a spot in the round of 16.

The Colombian side won with a brace from Kevin Viveros and a goal from Ecuadorian winger Billy Arce. The Brazilian team got one back with a penalty from Alan Patrick, but it wasn't enough to avoid defeat at Atanasio Girardot. With this result, Atlético Nacional now has six points, sitting in second place, followed by Internacional with five and Nacional de Montevideo with four.

Tight match broken open with a goal

The hosts, led by creative midfielder Edwin Cardona, came out looking for the win but found themselves up against a solid defense led by Vitao and Victor Gabriel. After several attempts, the breakthrough came in the 39th minute when Uruguayan full-back Camilo Cándido sent in a cross for Viveros, who controlled it with his right foot and finished with his left to open the scoring.

Inter reacts, but Atlético Nacional seals it in the final minutes

In the second half, Internacional responded and created two clear chances with shots from Wesley and Lucca, both saved by veteran goalkeeper David Ospina. However, on a quick counterattack led by Marino Hinestroza, the ball found its way to Billy Arce, who fired a powerful shot to double the lead.

Internacional pulled one back with a penalty awarded by Argentine referee Facundo Tello after Cándido fouled Braian Aguirre. Alan Patrick converted from the spot in the 80th minute, but in stoppage time, Viveros sealed the win with another counterattack, scoring the final 3-1 goal.

In the fifth round of Group F, Atlético Nacional will host Bahía next Wednesday in a key match for the group lead. The following day, Internacional will visit Nacional de Montevideo in hopes of staying in contention for a spot in the knockout stages.