Atlético Nacional's Victory in Copa Libertadores 2016
The impressive performances displayed by Atlético Nacional during the group stage of the 2016 Copa Libertadores made them the best team in the continent. They faced the surprising Independiente del Valle from Ecuador in the final. After drawing 1-1 in the first leg, they emerged victorious with a 1-0 win in Medellín.
This is the second trophy for the verdolagas in this type of championship. Their first continental triumph was in 1989 against Olimpia from Paraguay. An exciting penalty shootout determined them as the best in America.
Reinaldo Rueda is the main architect of this achievement for Atlético Nacional in the 2016 Copa Libertadores. His team's style of play was always attacking-focused, prioritizing ball possession and quick transitions from defense to attack.
With their victory, the Colombians also secured their spot in the Club World Cup. They will directly enter the semifinals and could potentially face Real Madrid, the winner of the Champions League, in the final.