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Flamengo won the trophy of the 2022 Copa Libertadores after defeating Paranaense and thus, joins the list of undefeated champions of the tournament. The 'Mengao' played 13 matches, winning 12 and drawing only once in this edition.
The Brazilian team reached the final after finishing first in Group H, ahead of Talleres, Universidad Católica de Chile, and Sporting Cristal with 16 points. In that stage, they had their only draw, as visitors against the Argentine team.
Then, in the round of 16, they eliminated Deportes Tolima with a resounding aggregate score of 8-1. Afterwards, they eliminated Corinthians and in the semifinals, they did the same with Vélez Sarsfield.
According to ESPN's data, throughout this edition, the team led by Dorival Júnior scored 34 goals, with 12 of them being scored by Pedro, who became the tournament's top scorer. In addition, the team stood out for its defensive solidity, having conceded eight goals.
On the other hand, the list of undefeated champions also includes Peñarol (1960), Santos (1963), Independiente (1964), Estudiantes (1969 and 1970), Boca Juniors (1978), and Corinthians (2012).
Tears of Arturo Vidal: this is how the Chilean celebrated Flamengo's victory in the Copa Libertadores
As expected, mixed feelings took hold of the moment and that was reflected in the midfielder's reaction. Celebration with his teammates and tears of joy for winning a very important trophy for his successful career.
After showcasing his football in Europe (from 2007 to 2022), the 'King' returned to South America to wear the 'Fla' jersey. Since he arrived in Rio de Janeiro, the midfielder has embraced the team's dynamic with the aim of continuing to win trophies, just as he had done with his previous clubs.