Copa Sudamericana: The Magic of Matias Fernandez

Even for someone like me with his ass permanently planted on the sofa watching football, it is nearly impossible to get excited about all of the competitions around the world. So we pick and choose. Usually my choice does not include the Copa Sudamericana. For me, it is the South American equivalent of the UEFA Cup. It isn’t quite as good as the continent’s premier competition, the Copa Libertadores, so unless you have a rooting interest it can be easy to ignore.

After watching some of the semifinals action yesterday, I now have a rooting interest and his name is Matias Fernandez. The 20-year-old striker for the Chilean side Colo Colo has already been highlighted on this very corner of cyberspace as a player to remember. Watching him in action has furthered my infatuation with the young gun. He has all the skills of a world class player and he plays with a joy that you often don’t see in today’s modern professional game. He is a boy that makes older men look like boys.

During the January transfer period, Fernandez will be heading to Spain to play for Villarreal where he will undoubtedly gain more exposure and where he will either turn out to be the next great thing or merely a capable player playing in one of the best leagues in the world.

For now, I plan on enjoying his remaining days in Chile. My ass isn’t leaving the couch anyway and now I have a reason to want to tune into the Copa Sudamericana finals.

Highlights of Fernandez’s semifinals magic below with requisite histrionics from announcers.

Some Related Stories:

Category: South America