No Centenary Copa Libertadores Celebration for Corinthians This Year

It’s the 100th anniversary of the founding of Corinthians this year, and the club were hoping to mark the occasion by lifting the Copa Libertadores trophy. Big name signings Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos also had dreams of winning the famous South American silverware now they are returned to Brazil.

But it’s not to be. Not this year anyway. Corinthians were knocked out in the Copa Libertadores round of 16 last night, beating fellow Brazilians Flamengo 2-1 in the second leg, but losing on away goals.

Corinthians had taken a two goal lead on the night thanks to a Flamengo own goal and a Ronaldo header (after a nice bit of work by Dentinho down the left – I think I like this kid), but Vágner Love scored the all important away goal for Flamengo early in the second half.

The not particularly delicious irony here is that Flamengo appeared to be Ronaldo’s club of choice on his return to Brazil, before he struck a deal with Corinthians.

Flamengo are joined in the quarterfinals by fellow Brazilian teams Cruzeiro and São Paulo, by Guadalajara of Mexico, and by holders Estudiantes of Argentina. The other three quarter-finalists are yet to be decided. The final will be played home and away over two legs on August 11th and 18th this year.

Some Related Stories:

Category: South America