Riquelme values Boca experience ahead of Libertadores final

Riquelme values Boca experience ahead of Copa Libertadores final

Jun 27, 2012 5:40:00 PM

The playmaker is one of many stars of the Argentine team on the 'wrong' side of 30, something that he believes can only be positive ahead of Wednesday's Corinthians test

Boca Juniors legend Juan Roman Riquelme has affirmed that the Xeneize old guard have the advantage going into the Copa Libertadores final against Corinthians, as the playmaker hopes to lift the trophy for the fourth time in his glittering career.

The Argentines overcame Universidad de Chile in the last four to reach the final of South America's most prestigious club competition, and will host the Brazilians on Wednesday in the Bombonera for the first leg of the decider.

As well as the 34-year-old Riquelme, Boca can also count on the experience of stars like Rolando Schiavi, 39, Leandro Somoza, 31 and Walter Erviti, 32.

According to Riquelme, those wise heads could prove the difference in helping the Argentines claim their seventh Libertadores title against Corinthians.

"This group is lucky enough to have older players who are sure of what they are doing. We are all happy. The team have been through tough times, the majority are older than 30," the former Barcelona and Villarreal man explained to ESPN.

"It could be the last chance. That helps us, we are very lucky."

Riquelme is under no illusions over the challenge they will confront taking on Brasileirao holders Corinthians, appearing in the Copa final for the first time in their history. But he affirmed that he is confident in the ability of his team-mates to rise to the occasion over two legs.

"As the game approaches, I start to imagine where I will pick up the ball, if I can score. I will enjoy the final a lot. It will be difficult, we have 180 minutes," he stated.

"We will have to play better than Corinthians. We believe that we have a good chance and that we can win."

Riquelme was on target three times during the 2007 final, which Boca won 5-0 on aggregate at the expense of Gremio.

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