Argentina Seeks to Break Brazil's Hold on Copa Libertadores
Argentina's top clubs have not had success in the Copa Libertadores in recent years, but this season may be different with several teams still in the running.
The Copa Libertadores has been dominated by Brazil's top clubs in recent years, with Argentina's last success coming almost eight years ago when River Plate won the title. However, this season may be different with several Argentine teams still in the running.
Current State of the Copa Libertadores
The current state of the Copa Libertadores is unusual, with neither Boca nor River disputing the knockout stages for the first time since 2014. This has opened up an opportunity for other Argentine teams to step up and challenge Brazil's dominance.
Estudiantes is one team that is considered a strong candidate to break Brazil's hold on the Copa Libertadores. The team has a strong pedigree in the tournament, with four wins, and is tied for fourth place in the all-time table alongside River and Flamengo. However, Estudiantes has started the second half of the year slowly, with three defeats and a win in the Liga Profesional.
Teams Still in the Running
Several other Argentine teams are still in the running for the Copa Libertadores, including Rosario Central, Platense, and Independiente Rivadavia. Rosario Central has been one of the most consistent teams in Argentina over the past year and a half and has the X-Factor in the shape of Ángel Di María. Platense and Independiente Rivadavia are both debutants in the Copa Libertadores, but have already caused a stir by performing well in the group stage.
The following teams are still in the running for the Copa Libertadores:
| Team | Country | Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Estudiantes | Argentina | Last-16 |
| Rosario Central | Argentina | Last-16 |
| Platense | Argentina | Last-16 |
| Independiente Rivadavia | Argentina | Last-16 |
| Universidad Católica | Chile | Last-16 |
| Corinthians | Brazil | Last-16 |
Chance for a Cinderella Story
This season's Copa Libertadores may also be the opportunity for a Cinderella story, with several teams considered outsiders still in the running. Platense and Independiente Rivadavia are both debutants in the tournament, but have already performed well in the group stage. Independiente Rivadavia went unbeaten in the group stage and inflicted a famous win over Fluminense, while Platense was unfortunate to see Coquimbo Unido snatch a draw with almost the last kick of the game.
The success of these teams would be a major upset and would break Brazil's stranglehold on the Copa Libertadores. It would also be a major boost for Argentine football, which has been dominated by Brazil's top clubs in recent years.
