All eyes on Copa Libertadores final as superclasico rivals clash again in battle for silverware
RIVER PLATE
V BOCA JUNIORS
One day everyone in Argentina will say they were there.
That is the case for Diego Maradona’s professional debut, and the 1978 World Cup final in Argentina, won by the hosts. This time, it’s the Copa Libertadores final this evening at Monumental de Nunez Stadium, where Boca Juniors and River Plate, the most popular Argentine clubs, face off.
Three weeks ago they drew 2-2 at La Bombonera, but away goals won’t matter in the second leg.
Except for a brief pause when an Argentine submarine was found in the Atlantic one year after it disappeared with 44 crew members, tonight’s final has been the biggest news in Argentina. Even a summit of leaders from G20 nations has been eclipsed by the historic superclasico.
On Thursday, Boca fans overcrowded the 49,000-seat La Bombonera just to watch a training session. But there will be no visiting fans at River’s stadium because of Argentina’s anti-football violence legislation.
Players, however, have kept a lower profile, without the traditional provocations.
River have reasons to be optimistic. Not only did the team fight back from 2-0 down in the first leg, they have also lifted their three Copa Libertadores titles at home. Boca fans, meanwhile, trust in their tradition of winning the Copa Libertadores away, as they have in four of the clubs’ six titles.
If there’s another draw tonight, there will be 30 minutes of extra time. If the draw persists, the final will be decided by penalties. Next year, the Copa Libertadores final will be played in a single match. The winner advances to the Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates next month.