Will it end in 2023? Brazilian football has recently been characterized by repatriating players from Europe: Diego Costa, David Luis, Hulk, Dani Alves, and Arturo Vidal are some of the most outstanding names. This has also had an impact internationally, especially in the Copa Libertadores.
The recent editions of the maximum continental tournament were marked by the supremacy of Brazil. Representatives from this country were present in the most important match in four of the last five tournaments.
Flamengo vs. Paranense Copa Libertadores final. Photo: EFE
Undoubtedly, one of the factors that allowed the success of these institutions was their economic power. Unlike the other leagues in the region, the Brasileirao pays exorbitant salaries and carries out massive marketing campaigns. The only team that has been able to compete with them in recent years was River Plate, led by Marcelo Gallardo.
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When was the last time a non-Brazilian team played in the Libertadores final?
We have to go back to 2018 to see a final that does not involve Brazilian clubs: the memorable final between River Plate and Boca Juniors ended with a 5-3 aggregate in favor of the Millionaires. As it is known, the champion had to be defined at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium due to the attacks registered at the Monumental de Nunez.
River Plate team, champion of the Copa Libertadores 2018. Photo: EFE
In addition, this match marked the end of the two-legged final format. Starting in 2019, CONMEBOL decided to move the finals to a neutral field.
Recent Copa Libertadores finals
- Flamengo 1-0 Athletico Paranaense (2022)
- Flamengo 1-2 Palmeiras (2021)
- Palmeiras 1-0 Santos (2020)
- Flamengo 2-1 River Plate (2019)