Argentina
and Brazil
look set to
dominate
Clubs from continent’s big
two will be favourites when
the group stage kicks off
ides from Argentina
and Brazil are again
expected to dominate
South America’s top
club competition –
and teams from the
two continental powerhouses have
already met in the qualifying rounds.
Libertadores champions three times,
Sao Paulo are already out after losing to
provincial side Talleres, who were in the
Argentinian third division less than five
years ago.
But even without Sao Paulo in the
group stage, Brazil will still have a
powerful contingent in this year’s field.
And three teams in particular will fancy
their chances of going all the way and
ending their country’s dismal record of
just one finalist since 2013.
While the previous administration atFlamengo concentrated on getting the
finances right, the current one wants
titles and has shown itself willing to
spend in order to chase them. The
squad looks stronger than last year
and the choice of veteran Abel Braga
as coach is a clear attempt to emulate
what domestic champions Palmeiras
did in 2018 under Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Palmeiras fell at the semi-final stage
in last year’s tournament and want to
show they are capable of better. The
other Brazilians to go out in the semis
were 2017 winners Gremio, who were
hit by injuries as they attempted to
retain their title. They have, however,
reinforced their squad, especially up
front, and have the benefit of continuity.
The colourful Renato Portaluppi has
been a revelation since taking over
some two-and-a-half years ago,S
Libertadores Cup
TIM VICKERYKEY
DATES
Group stage starts
March 5, 2019
Group stage ends
May 9, 2019
Knockout rounds start
July 23, 2019
Final
November 23, 2019