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Marcelo Leads Fluminense To First Libertadores Cup Victory Against Boca Juniors
In an unattractive and poorly executed final, Fluminense, led by former Real Madrid player, Marcelo, secured their first Copa Libertadores title in extra time against Boca Juniors, who still hold onto their dream of winning La Séptima. With this victory, Fluminense leaves Independiente as the most successful team in South America with seven titles. The decisive goal came in the 98th minute courtesy of Kennedy.
From the outset, Fluminense displayed an eagerness to play, while Boca Juniors appeared more inclined to let the clock run down. During the first half, Boca allowed precious minutes to elapse, which resulted in them conceding a goal. Although they made a couple of promising moves, their strategy was disrupted in the 36th minute when veteran Argentine striker Germán Cano scored his 13th goal of the tournament. This accomplishment made him the top scorer in the Copa Libertadores, a feat not achieved by anyone in this century.
At 0-1, the game was scarcely eventful until halftime. Fluminense’s experienced players seemed more fatigued than active, with veteran Felipe Melo leading the way until he was substituted in the 51st minute.
The second half saw a change in attitude, but Boca struggled to assert themselves. They struggled to maintain possession, as Fluminense dominated both defensively and offensively. Boca’s aspiration to secure a record seventh Libertadores trophy seemed to be slipping away at Maracaná stadium.
