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Copa Libertadores Preview
Goal.com, in conjunction with www.southamericanfootball.co.uk, brings you a team-by-team preview of the forthcoming championships.
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Feb 9, 2010 5:00:00 PM
GROUP 1
Corinthians (Brazil)
Previous best: Semi-finals (2000)
Corinthians have big ambitions for 2010. There is so much interest in their season, and with that, the inevitable hyperbole follows. To my mind, the big question for Timao (Big Team) is one that has faced them before – whether they can gel as a team. If problems do arise, will the players be able to sort them out and get on with the task at hand? Their potential success (in terms of trophies this year) is so finely balanced, that watching the story unfold looks to be anything but boring.
Star Man: Ronaldo
Expectations: Win or bust for the team from Sao Paulo.
Odds: 8/1
Cerro Porteno (Paraguay)
Previous best: Semi-finals (1973, 1978, 1993, 1998, 1999)
After being knocked out by Ramires & Co. with Cruzeiro in 2008, Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno return to action in the Copa after winning the Apertura 2009. This will be the 33rd time El Ciclon have competed in the competition, and despite having never won it, they've fared quite well overall, reaching the semi-finals no less than five times in their history. They don't have Carlos Gamarra at the back anymore, but they do have a creative force in Julio Dos Santos.
Star Man: Julio Dos Santos
Expectations: El Ciclon will just be happy to be part of the competition, but with second spot looking like a three-way battle, they have the potential to surprise.
Odds: 50/1
Independiente Medellin (Colombia)
Previous best: Semi-finals (2003)
Current Colombian champions Medellin are one of a trio of clubs from the 26th largest nation in the world competing in this years Copa, along with Once Caldas and Deportivo Cuenca. Back in 2003, Medellin shocked all futebol fans by making it to the semi-finals, beating Boca Juniors, Cerro Porteno and Gremio along the way. Sadly for them and their fans, they fell to Brazil's Santos at the last hurdle, and the chances of them repeating their success this year are, one would think, even more minimal than back then. The recent departures of Jackson Martinez and fellow Colombian Luis Mosquera left big holes at Medellin, and the pair will be really missed; they were key components of Independiente's stroll to the Copa Mustang II last year.
Star man: Aldo Bobadilla
Expectations: To make it out of the group would be considered a gigantic success for DIM, and it's just as likely they'll finish bottom.
Odds: 33/1
Racing (Uruguay)
Previous best: N/A
Racing of Montevideo will make history when they play their long awaited debut game in the Copa this year. They made it into the preliminary stages by finishing as last year's Liguilla Pre-Libertadores runners-up, and their presence in this year’s competition was confirmed last Thursday after defeating Junior of Colombia 4–1 on aggregate. The tiny Uruguayan club decided to donate all of the ticket money from the game – the highest attended in their history – to the victims of Haiti's earthquake. When you consider the fact that most sides, not just in Uruguay but in lower leagues everywhere, are barely managing to stay in the black, it really is quite a gesture. Big, big round of applause for Racing. "La Escuelita" (The Little School) have a stadium capacity of only 8,500 and two years ago were in the second tier of Uruguayan football. Nevertheless, Libertadores action is heading their way.
Star man: Sebastian Balsas
Expectations: The sole fact that the minnows from Montevideo are even in the competition this year is key for them, and anything on top of gaining massive experience should be considered a bonus.
Odds: 100/1
Liam Harrison
GROUP 2
Sao Paulo (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (3): (1992, 1993, 2005)
Sao Paulo have been the dominant force in Brazil over the past few years, winning three Brazilian Serie A titles running, until their domestic dominance was halted last season by Adriano and friends at Flamengo. Club president Juvenal Juvencio has immediately addressed his side’s recent failure by adding Atletico Madrid’s Cleber Santana and bringing Alex Silva back from a disappointing stint in Germany with Hamburg, whilst Roma’s Cicinho is reported to be on the verge of a homecoming. Sao Paulo will definitely be looking at nothing less than going all the way and clinching their fourth Libertadores title.
Star Man: Hernanes
Expectations: Tricolor Paulista (Three Colour) will certainly be aiming for a top place finish in the group.
Odds: 8/1
Nacional (Paraguay)
Previous best: Second place finish in Semi-final Group 1 (1983)
Last season Club Nacional clinched the 2009 Paraguayan Clausura Championship on the final day, the club’s first title in 63 years and only the third in their long history. Nicknamed La Academia and hailing from the Barrio Obrero neighbourhood of Asuncion, the Paraguayans are making their first Copa Libertadores appearance in 25 years.
Star Man: Marcos Melgarejo
Expectations: The Paraguayans will just be looking to enjoy the experience; qualification from the group will be a bonus.
Odds: 150/1
Once Caldas (Colombia)
Previous best: Winners (2004)
Once Caldas shocked the whole of South America with their Libertadores success in 2004, and continued in that vein last season, surprising the whole of Colombia as they crept into eighth place (the final play-off position) in the Colombian Championship and proceeding all the way to the title. They will however feel the loss of last season’s star trio of former Portsmouth and Southampton man Jhon Viafara, Jorge Casanova and the prolific Johan Fano.
Star Man: Sebastian Tagliabue
Expectations: El Blanco (The White) are comfortable playing the part of underdogs and will hope to sneak into the second qualification spot.
Odds: 33/1
Monterrey (Mexico)
Previous best: 1st Group Stage (1999)
Reigning Mexican champions, Monterrey won their third Apertura title in the club’s history in 2009, thanks to a last minute winner from Chilean goal sensation Humberto Suazo, who has sadly departed for Real Zaragoza in Spain. While they play second-fiddle to the likes of Club America and Chivas, Rayados (the striped ones) qualified for the tournament by defeating America 3-1 on penalties, after a 0-0 draw, to claim the 2010 Mexican InterLiga title.
Star Man: Oscar Recio
Expectations: The Suazo-less Mexicans will be looking for at least a quarter-final place.
Odds: 16/1
Rupert Fryer
GROUP 3
Estudiantes (Argentina)
Previous Best: Winners 1968, 1969, 1970, 2009
After winning the Copa Libertadores in July, Estudiantes began the Apertura campaign suffering from a hangover and eventually finished eighth, 10 points behind champions Banfield. 'Los Pincharratas', four-time winners of the competition, are the most tactically disciplined outfit on the continent. During coach Alejandro Sabella's tenure, Estudiantes have transformed from a mentally weak side into a notoriously difficult unit to break down. With current South American player of the year Juan Sebastian Veron dictating play in midfield, the La Plata club will trouble any opponent in the final third.
Star Man: Juan Sebastian Veron
Expectations: The Argentines are seeking to emulate the great team coached by Osvaldo Zubeldía - who won three successive titles from 1968-1970 - so nothing but victory will suffice.
Odds: 12/1
Club Bolivar (Bolivia)
Previous Best: Quarter-finals 1994, 1997, 1998, 2000.
Bolivar qualified as the Apertura champions of Bolivia, beating Real Potosi - thumped 8-1 by Cruzeiro in the preliminary round - by just a single point. In recent years, Bolivian teams have suffered terrible away form in the Libertadores; so 'Los Celestes', using the huge advantage of altitude, will be heavily dependent on home victories to progress. No Bolivian team has ever won the tournament and Bolivar, making their 25th appearance, will struggle to break this duck.
Star Man: William Ferreira
Expectations: The La Paz club will be targeting second place and hoping for a favourable draw in the knock-out stages.
Odds: 66/1
Alianza Lima (Peru)
Previous Best: Semi-finals 1976, 1978
Alianza Lima grabbed their Libertadores ticket thanks to a second place finish in Peru's Torneo Descentralizo. Despite winning 22 domestic titles, the Lima club have failed to land South America's biggest prize after 21 attempts. Things don't look like changing this year, particularly with their lack of goals: last season 'Blanquiazules' managed just 58 of them in 44 games.
Star Man: Juan Jayo
Expectations: Alianza will be determined to improve on their disappointing performance in 2007 when they lost all six games, conceeding 13 goals and scoring just twice.
Odds: 250/1
Juan Aurich (Peru)
Previous Best: First Round 1969
'El Ciclon del Norte', making their second appearance in the tournament, qualified as the best-placed non-group winning team in Peru's Descentralizado tournament. The Chiclayo side will be depending on goals from Sergio Ibarra to reach the second phase, who last year became the highest scorer ever in the Peruvian league. Coach Luis Fernando Suarez will be hoping Ricardo Ciciliano, recently signed from Colombian giants Millonarios, can add some spark in midfield.
Star Man: Sergio Ibarra
Expectations: Juan Aurich will be scrapping for second with countrymen Alianza and Bolivar.
Odds: 80/1
Brian Maxwell
GROUP 4
Lanus (Argentina)
Previous best: Second Round (2008)
Lanus claimed their spot in this years Copa by having the best average points tally in 2009 (apart from the two champions – Velez with the Clausura and rather historically, Banfield, with the Apertura).
Since claiming their first ever top flight title back in 2007, Lanus, due to the way the club is structured - have had their hand forced into selling their top players. Supreme goalscorer Jose Sand now plys his trade in the UAE – more recently the Argentine starlet Eduardo Salvio transferred to Atletico Madrid of Spain - where he shall play alongside a fellow Argentine in Sergio Aguero.
Star man: Gonzalo Castillejos
Expectations: This side lacks the balance it had back in 2007, it can still cause problems but not enough to go all the way. A semi-final appearance would be more than reasonable.
Odds: 20/1
Blooming (Bolivia)
Previous best: Second Round (1985)
Blooming of Bolivia arrive in this Copa as the 2009 Clausura champions. They've appeared in this competition half a dozen times in all, perhaps most famously back in 1985 where they defeated the Venezuelan side Deportivo Italia 8-0, Juan Carlos Sanchez scoring a double hat-trick – a record that still stands today.
Star man: Luís Sillero
Expectations: The Bolivians will hope to bloom in this competition for sure, realistically speaking though the most they can expect is for some decent results from the group games.
Odds: 500/1
Universitario (Peru)
Previous best: Runners-Up (1972)
2009 Peruvian Primera Division champions, Universitario shall be wanting an upturn in fortunes in this year’s Copa. Unbeaten at home in the group stage last year, they were eliminated by the narrowest of margins, going out due to San Luis of Mexico scoring one more goal than themselves.
Star man: Piero Alva
Expectations: “La U” will be hoping to go further than last time around and qualify for the second stage.
Odds: 100/1
Libertad (Paraguay)
Previous best: Semi-finals ( 1977, 2006)
“Los Repolleros” defeated Deportivo Tachira of Venezuela 3-2 on aggregate to qualify for these group stages and they shall fancy their chances of making it to the second stage.
Star man: Pablo Velazquez
Expectations: Having come so close four years ago, Libertad would love to do so again, qualification to the second round would be a reasonable ask though.
Odds: 25/1
Liam Harrison
GROUP 5
Internacional (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (2006)
The Porto Alegre outfit certainly have international pedigree, having won the Copa Libertadores in 2006, the Club World Cup in the same year, and the Copa Sudamericana in 2008. A second-place finish in the Brasileiro last year was a vast improvement on their sixth-place finish in the previous campaign, but it should have been even better as they crumbled in mid-season. A strong display in midfield will be key if they are to go far, with the tenacity of Pablo Guinazu and the creativity of Andres D’Alessandro, while the talented duo of Taison and Alecsandro will cause problems for any defence.
Star man: Andres D’Alessandro.
Expectations: Should make it out of the group without too many problems, and will expect to make the semi-finals.
Odds: 10/1
Cerro Largo (Uruguay)
Previous best: Group Stage (1995)
Cerro made it into the Copa Libertadores group stage by dint of Uruguay’s unusual qualification system. Having finished an aggregate third in the 2008-09 season, Cerro went into a round robin tournament with the other top six-placed sides. By winning the tournament, Cerro made it through to the group phase. However, star striker Joaquin Boghossian left the club that summer, with the result that los Villeros finished a dismal 14th in the 2009 Apertura, winning just twice all season. A leaky and error-prone defence will also be a hindrance as they embark on their second continental adventure, 15 years after making their bow in the competition.
Star man: Claudio Dadomo.
Expectations: Minnows can often spring a surprise in the Copa Libertadores, but Cerro are unlikely to be one of them. Fourth place and an early exit.
Odds: 250/1
Deportivo Quito (Ecuador)
Previous best: Second Round (1989)
Deportivo Quito have been upstaged by their city rivals LDU in recent years, but the 2008 Copa Libertadores champions did not even qualify this time around. Deportivo are no strangers to the competition themselves, as this is their seventh appearance, while they have won the last two league titles in Ecuador. Coached by former Argentina international Ruben Insua, los Chullas will be a tricky side to deal with. They will be fully aware of the altitude advantage they hold in Quito, which is some 2,800m above sea level, and this will need to be exploited to the maximum if they are to make headway in the competition.
Star man: Ivan Hurtado.
Expectations: They have a realistic chance of making second place in the group. Anything thereon is a bonus.
Odds: 66/1
Emelec (Ecuador)
Previous best: Semi-finals (1995)
Emelec were the last team to qualify for the group stage as they upset Argentine side Newell’s Old Boys in the preliminary round. They finished in third place in the Ecuadorian Serie A last year, granting them passage to their first Copa Libertadores since 2007. On that occasion they were seen off with some ease by their illustrious opponents, but they may be more of a threat this time around. With José Luis Quiñónez directing the play from the middle of the pitch, Emelec also boast two of Ecuador’s most promising talents in Joao Rojas and Jefferson Pinto.
Star man: José Luis Quiñónez.
Expectations: El Bombillo have surprised many by reaching this stage but should rival Deportivo Quito for second place.
Odds: Emelec 200/1
Anthony Wright
GROUP 6
Banfield (Argentina)
Previous Best: Quarter-final 2005
Banfield made club history in December by winning their first domestic title. However, the Buenos Aires minnows recently lost last season's top-scorer, Santiago Silva, who returned to parent-club Velez Sarsfield after a successful loan spell. Coach Julio Falcioni can take heart from his strong defence, who conceeded a stingy 11 goals in 19 games as they wrapped up the Apertura.
Star Man: Sebastian Fernandez
Expectations: 'El Taladro' will be confident of making at least the knock-out stages.
Odds: 25/1
Nacional (Uruguay)
Previous Best: Winners 1971, 1980, 1988
The Montevideo giants have a strong Libertadores pedigree and no club on the continent values this competition more. Qualifying as Primera Division champions, 'Bolso' recently mourned the loss of star player Nicolas Lodeiro, who moved to Ajax. However, the Uruguayans are still a strong outfit and, with the emergence of exciting talents like Santiago Garcia and Sebastian Coates, remain confident of qualifying.
Expectations: Anything less than qualification will result in tears and anger.
Star Man: Sebastian Coates
Odds: 20/1
Deportivo Cuenca (Ecuador)
Previous Best: Second Round 2009
Deportivo, making their seventh tournament appearance, qualified after finishing second in Ecuador's top flight. The loss of Rodrigo Teixeira, who moved to Club Guarani in Paraguay, will hurt the Ecuadorians. However, coach Paul Velez is satisfied after retaining the services of his top-scorer, Edison Preciado, ensuring 'El Expreso Austral' still possess a threat up front.
Expectations: The tournament outsiders will be content with not disgracing themselves on the big stage.
Star Man: Edison Preciado
Odds: 150/1
Monarcas Morelia (Mexico)
Previous Best: Quarter-finals 2002
Morelia qualified thanks to a third place finish in Mexico's Apertura classification phase. The club, owned by media giants TV Azteca, will depend on the goal-scoring threat of Colombian striker Luis Gabriel Rey to advance. Last month, coach Tomas Boy signed Mexican legend Jared Borgetti to add some much needed fire-power.
Expectations: 'La Monarquia' will be tough opponents for Banfield and Nacional and may nick the second qualifying spot.
Star Man: Mauricio Romero
Odds: 25/1
Brian Maxwell
GROUP 7
Velez Sarsfield (Argentina)
Previous best: Winners (1994)
Runaway leaders at the start of Argentina’s Apertura 2009, with both Boca and River in the midst of institutional crisis, Velez looked as if they were sure to be crowned champions – but they quickly ran out of steam. Having brought last season’s top goalscorer in Argentinian football – Santiago Silva – back from Champions Banfield to partner the highly-rated Jonathan Cristaldo in attack, El Fortin (The Fort) will be aiming for Libertadores glory.
Star Man: Santiago Silva
Expectations: Velez are arguably the strongest team in Argentina and will wonder why they can’t go all the way.
Odds: 12/1
Colo Colo (Chile)
Previous best: Winners (1991)
The 2009 Chilean Apertura champions, Colo-Colo will look to improve on last year’s Libertadores campaign when they narrowly failed to qualify from a tough group which included Brazilian clubs Sport and Palmeiras. The Chileans have lost the prolific Lucas Barrios, his fantastic Libertadores performances last year earned him a move to Germany with Dortmund. Barrios succeeded the ultra-prolific Humberto Suazo, and just as they did when Suazo left, Los Albos (the Snow Whites) have brought in an adequate replacement; Argentinian forward Ezequiel Miralles has scored 12 goals in 17 league games since joining the club last season.
Star Man: Ezequiel Miralles
Expectations: Colo will aim to improve upon last year’s campaign and achieve qualification from the first round.
Odds: 25/1
Deportivo Italia (Venezuela)
Previous best: Quarter-Final (1969)
Deportivo Italia are making their first Libertadores appearance in almost a decade, having not competed in the competition since 2001 when they fell at the Preliminary Round stage. Los Azules qualified for the tournament thanks to a fantastic Apertura 2009 campaign that ended in heartbreak as they lost 1-0 at home to Deportivo Lara on the final day of the season, allowing Deportivo Tachira to pip them to the title.
Star Man: Cristian Casseres
Expectations: The Venezuelans will expect nothing more than a respectable series of results in their six group games.
Odds: 200/1
Cruzeiro (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (2) (1976, 1997)
Cruzeiro will definitely come into this year’s competition with the belief that they can take home the trophy. A Raposa (The Fox) have had a lot to be cheerful about over the last month or so too, having cruised through their qualification play-off, beating poor old Real Potosi of Bolivia 7-0 in the second leg. The side from Belo Horizonte have also enjoyed a wonderful winter transfer window, managing to hold on to Real Madrid target Jonathan and star man Kleber (who very nearly joined Porto). Former Tottenham veteran Gilberto is enjoying good form with the club and in Wellington Paulista, coach Adílson Batista has a real number nine who is bound to grab a few goals.
Star Man: Kleber
Expectations: Cruzeiro will be going for the title.
Odds: 11/1
Rupert Fryer
GROUP 8
Flamengo (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (1981)
A club that has had little success in recent times, Flamengo ended their 17-year wait for the league title in 2009. Whilst they have dominated the Campeonato Carioca, their performances on the international scene have often been lacking. Their one and only Libertadores victory came nearly 30 years ago, and they have flattered to deceive in their last few appearances in the competition. However, with a reinvigorated Adriano leading the line and the evergreen Dejan Petkovic starring in midfield, it could be a different story this time around.
Star man: Adriano.
Expectations: As Brazilian champions they are among the favourites, and Adriano’s goals will be key to their success. The final is a realistic possibility.
Odds: 8/1
Universidad de Chile (Chile)
Previous best: Semi Finals (1970, 1996)
Universidad de Chile booked their passage to the group stage of the Copa Libertadores after winning last year’s Chilean Apertura, and have already started this season with a bang by beating Cobresal 5-1 in the opening game. La U have featured 15 times in this competition, and only the foolhardy would underestimate Gerardo Pelusso’s side this time around. The pacy Gabriel Vargas is likely to form a dangerous partnership with the free-scoring Juan Manuel Oliveira up front, with the capable Diego Rivarola also at Pelusso’s disposal. Their downfall could be their consistency, as they find themselves in a tough group.
Star man: Juan Manuel Oliveira.
Expectations: They have a difficult group to negotiate, but the talent is there to reach the last eight.
Odds: 40/1
Caracas (Venezuela)
Previous best: Quarter-finals (2009)
Caracas have been frequent participants in the Copa Libertadores in recent years after dominating the Venezuelan league. Having rarely made it past the group stage, they surprised many last year when they topped Group 6, eliminating highly-fancied Lanus. Moreover, they made it to the quarter-finals before going out to Gremio on away goals. Usually very difficult to break down at home, Caracas were racing away with the 2009 Apertura until three losses in the last four matches saw them finish two points behind Deportivo Tachira.
Star man: Rafael Castellín.
Expectations: They will be difficult opposition in the group and could squeeze through into the last 16 if results go their way.
Odds: 80/1
Universidad Catolica (Chile)
Previous best: Runners-Up (1993)
The Chilean league is decided by a playoff between the top eight-placed sides, with the winners of each playoff gaining entry to the Copa Libertadores. An additional spot is available for the best-placed non-champion in the Clausura, which allowed Universidad Catolica to pit themselves against the continent’s élite. They reached the group stage by the skin of their teeth after a penalty shootout victory over Argentine outfit Colon in the qualifying round, and will now come up against old rivals Univerisdad de Chile.
Star man: Waldo Ponce.
Expectations: With the rule that only six group runners-up will qualify this year, UC will be hard pressed to reach the knockout stage.
Odds: 40/1
Anthony Wright
The Chosen Two
CONMEBOL were left in a rather tricky situation last year following the worldwide swine flu epidemic. With Mexico one of the worst affected nations, it had closed its boarders in an attempt to contain the outbreak. The South American Football Federation were therefore faced with the dilemma over where San Luis and Chivas would play their home fixtures.
San Luis and Chivas had qualified for the second round and were set to face Nacional of Uruguay and Sao Paulo respectively. Following a number of suggestions and official announcements – including single leg ties and alternative venues - the Mexican FA pulled both teams from the competition and severed all links to CONMEBOL.
Fast-forward 12 months and an amicable agreement has finally been found. San Luis and Chivas Guadalajara have received a bye into the second round of this year’s competition.
San Luis (Mexico)
Previous best: Second Round (2009)
San Luis made their Libertadores debut last year and did well to qualify for the second round. Going into the final group game they had to beat group leaders Libertad of Paraguay away from home and make up a difference of four goals in the process. A 2-0 win followed before the swine flu epidemic brought their campaign to an end. The Gladiadores (Gladiators) won’t have the task of battling through the group stage this year and will hope prolific Argentinian striker Alfredo Moreno can fire them into the latter stages.
Star Man: Alfredo Moreno
Expectations: San Luis will believe they are in with a shout and much will depend on how quickly they find their Libertadores groove in the absence of the group games.
Odds: 20/1
Chivas Guadalajara (Mexico)
Previous best: Semi-finals (2005)
One of the best supported teams in the Americas, 11-time Primera Division champions Chivas famously deploy a philosophy of fielding only Mexican-born players. With four wins in their four Clausura Group 1 Table so far this season, El Rebano Sagrado (The Sacred Herd) are flying and will be hoping for more of the same from 21-year-old forward Javier Hernandez, who has already grabbed seven goals this campaign. With the likes of Jonny Magallo and Alberto Medina, both celebrated internationals, Chivas have a good blend of youth and experience and the 2009 InterLiga champions are a good bet for glory at 14/1.
Star Man: Javier Hernandez
Expectations: Chivas are one of the favourites and will be going all out for their first Libertadores crown.
Odds: 14/1
Rupert Fryer
More preview material can be found on Goal.com and www.southamericanfootball.co.uk.
Corinthians (Brazil)
Previous best: Semi-finals (2000)
Corinthians have big ambitions for 2010. There is so much interest in their season, and with that, the inevitable hyperbole follows. To my mind, the big question for Timao (Big Team) is one that has faced them before – whether they can gel as a team. If problems do arise, will the players be able to sort them out and get on with the task at hand? Their potential success (in terms of trophies this year) is so finely balanced, that watching the story unfold looks to be anything but boring.
Star Man: Ronaldo
Expectations: Win or bust for the team from Sao Paulo.
Odds: 8/1
Cerro Porteno (Paraguay)
Previous best: Semi-finals (1973, 1978, 1993, 1998, 1999)
After being knocked out by Ramires & Co. with Cruzeiro in 2008, Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno return to action in the Copa after winning the Apertura 2009. This will be the 33rd time El Ciclon have competed in the competition, and despite having never won it, they've fared quite well overall, reaching the semi-finals no less than five times in their history. They don't have Carlos Gamarra at the back anymore, but they do have a creative force in Julio Dos Santos.
Star Man: Julio Dos Santos
Expectations: El Ciclon will just be happy to be part of the competition, but with second spot looking like a three-way battle, they have the potential to surprise.
Odds: 50/1
Independiente Medellin (Colombia)
Previous best: Semi-finals (2003)
Current Colombian champions Medellin are one of a trio of clubs from the 26th largest nation in the world competing in this years Copa, along with Once Caldas and Deportivo Cuenca. Back in 2003, Medellin shocked all futebol fans by making it to the semi-finals, beating Boca Juniors, Cerro Porteno and Gremio along the way. Sadly for them and their fans, they fell to Brazil's Santos at the last hurdle, and the chances of them repeating their success this year are, one would think, even more minimal than back then. The recent departures of Jackson Martinez and fellow Colombian Luis Mosquera left big holes at Medellin, and the pair will be really missed; they were key components of Independiente's stroll to the Copa Mustang II last year.
Star man: Aldo Bobadilla
Expectations: To make it out of the group would be considered a gigantic success for DIM, and it's just as likely they'll finish bottom.
Odds: 33/1
Racing (Uruguay)
Previous best: N/A
Racing of Montevideo will make history when they play their long awaited debut game in the Copa this year. They made it into the preliminary stages by finishing as last year's Liguilla Pre-Libertadores runners-up, and their presence in this year’s competition was confirmed last Thursday after defeating Junior of Colombia 4–1 on aggregate. The tiny Uruguayan club decided to donate all of the ticket money from the game – the highest attended in their history – to the victims of Haiti's earthquake. When you consider the fact that most sides, not just in Uruguay but in lower leagues everywhere, are barely managing to stay in the black, it really is quite a gesture. Big, big round of applause for Racing. "La Escuelita" (The Little School) have a stadium capacity of only 8,500 and two years ago were in the second tier of Uruguayan football. Nevertheless, Libertadores action is heading their way.
Star man: Sebastian Balsas
Expectations: The sole fact that the minnows from Montevideo are even in the competition this year is key for them, and anything on top of gaining massive experience should be considered a bonus.
Odds: 100/1
Liam Harrison
GROUP 2
Sao Paulo (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (3): (1992, 1993, 2005)
Sao Paulo have been the dominant force in Brazil over the past few years, winning three Brazilian Serie A titles running, until their domestic dominance was halted last season by Adriano and friends at Flamengo. Club president Juvenal Juvencio has immediately addressed his side’s recent failure by adding Atletico Madrid’s Cleber Santana and bringing Alex Silva back from a disappointing stint in Germany with Hamburg, whilst Roma’s Cicinho is reported to be on the verge of a homecoming. Sao Paulo will definitely be looking at nothing less than going all the way and clinching their fourth Libertadores title.
Star Man: Hernanes
Expectations: Tricolor Paulista (Three Colour) will certainly be aiming for a top place finish in the group.
Odds: 8/1
Nacional (Paraguay)
Previous best: Second place finish in Semi-final Group 1 (1983)
Last season Club Nacional clinched the 2009 Paraguayan Clausura Championship on the final day, the club’s first title in 63 years and only the third in their long history. Nicknamed La Academia and hailing from the Barrio Obrero neighbourhood of Asuncion, the Paraguayans are making their first Copa Libertadores appearance in 25 years.
Star Man: Marcos Melgarejo
Expectations: The Paraguayans will just be looking to enjoy the experience; qualification from the group will be a bonus.
Odds: 150/1
Once Caldas (Colombia)
Previous best: Winners (2004)
Once Caldas shocked the whole of South America with their Libertadores success in 2004, and continued in that vein last season, surprising the whole of Colombia as they crept into eighth place (the final play-off position) in the Colombian Championship and proceeding all the way to the title. They will however feel the loss of last season’s star trio of former Portsmouth and Southampton man Jhon Viafara, Jorge Casanova and the prolific Johan Fano.
Star Man: Sebastian Tagliabue
Expectations: El Blanco (The White) are comfortable playing the part of underdogs and will hope to sneak into the second qualification spot.
Odds: 33/1
Monterrey (Mexico)
Previous best: 1st Group Stage (1999)
Reigning Mexican champions, Monterrey won their third Apertura title in the club’s history in 2009, thanks to a last minute winner from Chilean goal sensation Humberto Suazo, who has sadly departed for Real Zaragoza in Spain. While they play second-fiddle to the likes of Club America and Chivas, Rayados (the striped ones) qualified for the tournament by defeating America 3-1 on penalties, after a 0-0 draw, to claim the 2010 Mexican InterLiga title.
Star Man: Oscar Recio
Expectations: The Suazo-less Mexicans will be looking for at least a quarter-final place.
Odds: 16/1
Rupert Fryer
GROUP 3
Estudiantes (Argentina)
Previous Best: Winners 1968, 1969, 1970, 2009
After winning the Copa Libertadores in July, Estudiantes began the Apertura campaign suffering from a hangover and eventually finished eighth, 10 points behind champions Banfield. 'Los Pincharratas', four-time winners of the competition, are the most tactically disciplined outfit on the continent. During coach Alejandro Sabella's tenure, Estudiantes have transformed from a mentally weak side into a notoriously difficult unit to break down. With current South American player of the year Juan Sebastian Veron dictating play in midfield, the La Plata club will trouble any opponent in the final third.
Star Man: Juan Sebastian Veron
Expectations: The Argentines are seeking to emulate the great team coached by Osvaldo Zubeldía - who won three successive titles from 1968-1970 - so nothing but victory will suffice.
Odds: 12/1
Club Bolivar (Bolivia)
Previous Best: Quarter-finals 1994, 1997, 1998, 2000.
Bolivar qualified as the Apertura champions of Bolivia, beating Real Potosi - thumped 8-1 by Cruzeiro in the preliminary round - by just a single point. In recent years, Bolivian teams have suffered terrible away form in the Libertadores; so 'Los Celestes', using the huge advantage of altitude, will be heavily dependent on home victories to progress. No Bolivian team has ever won the tournament and Bolivar, making their 25th appearance, will struggle to break this duck.
Star Man: William Ferreira
Expectations: The La Paz club will be targeting second place and hoping for a favourable draw in the knock-out stages.
Odds: 66/1
Alianza Lima (Peru)
Previous Best: Semi-finals 1976, 1978
Alianza Lima grabbed their Libertadores ticket thanks to a second place finish in Peru's Torneo Descentralizo. Despite winning 22 domestic titles, the Lima club have failed to land South America's biggest prize after 21 attempts. Things don't look like changing this year, particularly with their lack of goals: last season 'Blanquiazules' managed just 58 of them in 44 games.
Star Man: Juan Jayo
Expectations: Alianza will be determined to improve on their disappointing performance in 2007 when they lost all six games, conceeding 13 goals and scoring just twice.
Odds: 250/1
Juan Aurich (Peru)
Previous Best: First Round 1969
'El Ciclon del Norte', making their second appearance in the tournament, qualified as the best-placed non-group winning team in Peru's Descentralizado tournament. The Chiclayo side will be depending on goals from Sergio Ibarra to reach the second phase, who last year became the highest scorer ever in the Peruvian league. Coach Luis Fernando Suarez will be hoping Ricardo Ciciliano, recently signed from Colombian giants Millonarios, can add some spark in midfield.
Star Man: Sergio Ibarra
Expectations: Juan Aurich will be scrapping for second with countrymen Alianza and Bolivar.
Odds: 80/1
Brian Maxwell
GROUP 4
Lanus (Argentina)
Previous best: Second Round (2008)
Lanus claimed their spot in this years Copa by having the best average points tally in 2009 (apart from the two champions – Velez with the Clausura and rather historically, Banfield, with the Apertura).
Since claiming their first ever top flight title back in 2007, Lanus, due to the way the club is structured - have had their hand forced into selling their top players. Supreme goalscorer Jose Sand now plys his trade in the UAE – more recently the Argentine starlet Eduardo Salvio transferred to Atletico Madrid of Spain - where he shall play alongside a fellow Argentine in Sergio Aguero.
Star man: Gonzalo Castillejos
Expectations: This side lacks the balance it had back in 2007, it can still cause problems but not enough to go all the way. A semi-final appearance would be more than reasonable.
Odds: 20/1
Blooming (Bolivia)
Previous best: Second Round (1985)
Blooming of Bolivia arrive in this Copa as the 2009 Clausura champions. They've appeared in this competition half a dozen times in all, perhaps most famously back in 1985 where they defeated the Venezuelan side Deportivo Italia 8-0, Juan Carlos Sanchez scoring a double hat-trick – a record that still stands today.
Star man: Luís Sillero
Expectations: The Bolivians will hope to bloom in this competition for sure, realistically speaking though the most they can expect is for some decent results from the group games.
Odds: 500/1
Universitario (Peru)
Previous best: Runners-Up (1972)
2009 Peruvian Primera Division champions, Universitario shall be wanting an upturn in fortunes in this year’s Copa. Unbeaten at home in the group stage last year, they were eliminated by the narrowest of margins, going out due to San Luis of Mexico scoring one more goal than themselves.
Star man: Piero Alva
Expectations: “La U” will be hoping to go further than last time around and qualify for the second stage.
Odds: 100/1
Libertad (Paraguay)
Previous best: Semi-finals ( 1977, 2006)
“Los Repolleros” defeated Deportivo Tachira of Venezuela 3-2 on aggregate to qualify for these group stages and they shall fancy their chances of making it to the second stage.
Star man: Pablo Velazquez
Expectations: Having come so close four years ago, Libertad would love to do so again, qualification to the second round would be a reasonable ask though.
Odds: 25/1
Liam Harrison
GROUP 5
Internacional (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (2006)
The Porto Alegre outfit certainly have international pedigree, having won the Copa Libertadores in 2006, the Club World Cup in the same year, and the Copa Sudamericana in 2008. A second-place finish in the Brasileiro last year was a vast improvement on their sixth-place finish in the previous campaign, but it should have been even better as they crumbled in mid-season. A strong display in midfield will be key if they are to go far, with the tenacity of Pablo Guinazu and the creativity of Andres D’Alessandro, while the talented duo of Taison and Alecsandro will cause problems for any defence.
Star man: Andres D’Alessandro.
Expectations: Should make it out of the group without too many problems, and will expect to make the semi-finals.
Odds: 10/1
Cerro Largo (Uruguay)
Previous best: Group Stage (1995)
Cerro made it into the Copa Libertadores group stage by dint of Uruguay’s unusual qualification system. Having finished an aggregate third in the 2008-09 season, Cerro went into a round robin tournament with the other top six-placed sides. By winning the tournament, Cerro made it through to the group phase. However, star striker Joaquin Boghossian left the club that summer, with the result that los Villeros finished a dismal 14th in the 2009 Apertura, winning just twice all season. A leaky and error-prone defence will also be a hindrance as they embark on their second continental adventure, 15 years after making their bow in the competition.
Star man: Claudio Dadomo.
Expectations: Minnows can often spring a surprise in the Copa Libertadores, but Cerro are unlikely to be one of them. Fourth place and an early exit.
Odds: 250/1
Deportivo Quito (Ecuador)
Previous best: Second Round (1989)
Deportivo Quito have been upstaged by their city rivals LDU in recent years, but the 2008 Copa Libertadores champions did not even qualify this time around. Deportivo are no strangers to the competition themselves, as this is their seventh appearance, while they have won the last two league titles in Ecuador. Coached by former Argentina international Ruben Insua, los Chullas will be a tricky side to deal with. They will be fully aware of the altitude advantage they hold in Quito, which is some 2,800m above sea level, and this will need to be exploited to the maximum if they are to make headway in the competition.
Star man: Ivan Hurtado.
Expectations: They have a realistic chance of making second place in the group. Anything thereon is a bonus.
Odds: 66/1
Emelec (Ecuador)
Previous best: Semi-finals (1995)
Emelec were the last team to qualify for the group stage as they upset Argentine side Newell’s Old Boys in the preliminary round. They finished in third place in the Ecuadorian Serie A last year, granting them passage to their first Copa Libertadores since 2007. On that occasion they were seen off with some ease by their illustrious opponents, but they may be more of a threat this time around. With José Luis Quiñónez directing the play from the middle of the pitch, Emelec also boast two of Ecuador’s most promising talents in Joao Rojas and Jefferson Pinto.
Star man: José Luis Quiñónez.
Expectations: El Bombillo have surprised many by reaching this stage but should rival Deportivo Quito for second place.
Odds: Emelec 200/1
Anthony Wright
GROUP 6
Banfield (Argentina)
Previous Best: Quarter-final 2005
Banfield made club history in December by winning their first domestic title. However, the Buenos Aires minnows recently lost last season's top-scorer, Santiago Silva, who returned to parent-club Velez Sarsfield after a successful loan spell. Coach Julio Falcioni can take heart from his strong defence, who conceeded a stingy 11 goals in 19 games as they wrapped up the Apertura.
Star Man: Sebastian Fernandez
Expectations: 'El Taladro' will be confident of making at least the knock-out stages.
Odds: 25/1
Nacional (Uruguay)
Previous Best: Winners 1971, 1980, 1988
The Montevideo giants have a strong Libertadores pedigree and no club on the continent values this competition more. Qualifying as Primera Division champions, 'Bolso' recently mourned the loss of star player Nicolas Lodeiro, who moved to Ajax. However, the Uruguayans are still a strong outfit and, with the emergence of exciting talents like Santiago Garcia and Sebastian Coates, remain confident of qualifying.
Expectations: Anything less than qualification will result in tears and anger.
Star Man: Sebastian Coates
Odds: 20/1
Deportivo Cuenca (Ecuador)
Previous Best: Second Round 2009
Deportivo, making their seventh tournament appearance, qualified after finishing second in Ecuador's top flight. The loss of Rodrigo Teixeira, who moved to Club Guarani in Paraguay, will hurt the Ecuadorians. However, coach Paul Velez is satisfied after retaining the services of his top-scorer, Edison Preciado, ensuring 'El Expreso Austral' still possess a threat up front.
Expectations: The tournament outsiders will be content with not disgracing themselves on the big stage.
Star Man: Edison Preciado
Odds: 150/1
Monarcas Morelia (Mexico)
Previous Best: Quarter-finals 2002
Morelia qualified thanks to a third place finish in Mexico's Apertura classification phase. The club, owned by media giants TV Azteca, will depend on the goal-scoring threat of Colombian striker Luis Gabriel Rey to advance. Last month, coach Tomas Boy signed Mexican legend Jared Borgetti to add some much needed fire-power.
Expectations: 'La Monarquia' will be tough opponents for Banfield and Nacional and may nick the second qualifying spot.
Star Man: Mauricio Romero
Odds: 25/1
Brian Maxwell
GROUP 7
Velez Sarsfield (Argentina)
Previous best: Winners (1994)
Runaway leaders at the start of Argentina’s Apertura 2009, with both Boca and River in the midst of institutional crisis, Velez looked as if they were sure to be crowned champions – but they quickly ran out of steam. Having brought last season’s top goalscorer in Argentinian football – Santiago Silva – back from Champions Banfield to partner the highly-rated Jonathan Cristaldo in attack, El Fortin (The Fort) will be aiming for Libertadores glory.
Star Man: Santiago Silva
Expectations: Velez are arguably the strongest team in Argentina and will wonder why they can’t go all the way.
Odds: 12/1
Colo Colo (Chile)
Previous best: Winners (1991)
The 2009 Chilean Apertura champions, Colo-Colo will look to improve on last year’s Libertadores campaign when they narrowly failed to qualify from a tough group which included Brazilian clubs Sport and Palmeiras. The Chileans have lost the prolific Lucas Barrios, his fantastic Libertadores performances last year earned him a move to Germany with Dortmund. Barrios succeeded the ultra-prolific Humberto Suazo, and just as they did when Suazo left, Los Albos (the Snow Whites) have brought in an adequate replacement; Argentinian forward Ezequiel Miralles has scored 12 goals in 17 league games since joining the club last season.
Star Man: Ezequiel Miralles
Expectations: Colo will aim to improve upon last year’s campaign and achieve qualification from the first round.
Odds: 25/1
Deportivo Italia (Venezuela)
Previous best: Quarter-Final (1969)
Deportivo Italia are making their first Libertadores appearance in almost a decade, having not competed in the competition since 2001 when they fell at the Preliminary Round stage. Los Azules qualified for the tournament thanks to a fantastic Apertura 2009 campaign that ended in heartbreak as they lost 1-0 at home to Deportivo Lara on the final day of the season, allowing Deportivo Tachira to pip them to the title.
Star Man: Cristian Casseres
Expectations: The Venezuelans will expect nothing more than a respectable series of results in their six group games.
Odds: 200/1
Cruzeiro (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (2) (1976, 1997)
Cruzeiro will definitely come into this year’s competition with the belief that they can take home the trophy. A Raposa (The Fox) have had a lot to be cheerful about over the last month or so too, having cruised through their qualification play-off, beating poor old Real Potosi of Bolivia 7-0 in the second leg. The side from Belo Horizonte have also enjoyed a wonderful winter transfer window, managing to hold on to Real Madrid target Jonathan and star man Kleber (who very nearly joined Porto). Former Tottenham veteran Gilberto is enjoying good form with the club and in Wellington Paulista, coach Adílson Batista has a real number nine who is bound to grab a few goals.
Star Man: Kleber
Expectations: Cruzeiro will be going for the title.
Odds: 11/1
Rupert Fryer
GROUP 8
Flamengo (Brazil)
Previous best: Winners (1981)
A club that has had little success in recent times, Flamengo ended their 17-year wait for the league title in 2009. Whilst they have dominated the Campeonato Carioca, their performances on the international scene have often been lacking. Their one and only Libertadores victory came nearly 30 years ago, and they have flattered to deceive in their last few appearances in the competition. However, with a reinvigorated Adriano leading the line and the evergreen Dejan Petkovic starring in midfield, it could be a different story this time around.
Star man: Adriano.
Expectations: As Brazilian champions they are among the favourites, and Adriano’s goals will be key to their success. The final is a realistic possibility.
Odds: 8/1
Universidad de Chile (Chile)
Previous best: Semi Finals (1970, 1996)
Universidad de Chile booked their passage to the group stage of the Copa Libertadores after winning last year’s Chilean Apertura, and have already started this season with a bang by beating Cobresal 5-1 in the opening game. La U have featured 15 times in this competition, and only the foolhardy would underestimate Gerardo Pelusso’s side this time around. The pacy Gabriel Vargas is likely to form a dangerous partnership with the free-scoring Juan Manuel Oliveira up front, with the capable Diego Rivarola also at Pelusso’s disposal. Their downfall could be their consistency, as they find themselves in a tough group.
Star man: Juan Manuel Oliveira.
Expectations: They have a difficult group to negotiate, but the talent is there to reach the last eight.
Odds: 40/1
Caracas (Venezuela)
Previous best: Quarter-finals (2009)
Caracas have been frequent participants in the Copa Libertadores in recent years after dominating the Venezuelan league. Having rarely made it past the group stage, they surprised many last year when they topped Group 6, eliminating highly-fancied Lanus. Moreover, they made it to the quarter-finals before going out to Gremio on away goals. Usually very difficult to break down at home, Caracas were racing away with the 2009 Apertura until three losses in the last four matches saw them finish two points behind Deportivo Tachira.
Star man: Rafael Castellín.
Expectations: They will be difficult opposition in the group and could squeeze through into the last 16 if results go their way.
Odds: 80/1
Universidad Catolica (Chile)
Previous best: Runners-Up (1993)
The Chilean league is decided by a playoff between the top eight-placed sides, with the winners of each playoff gaining entry to the Copa Libertadores. An additional spot is available for the best-placed non-champion in the Clausura, which allowed Universidad Catolica to pit themselves against the continent’s élite. They reached the group stage by the skin of their teeth after a penalty shootout victory over Argentine outfit Colon in the qualifying round, and will now come up against old rivals Univerisdad de Chile.
Star man: Waldo Ponce.
Expectations: With the rule that only six group runners-up will qualify this year, UC will be hard pressed to reach the knockout stage.
Odds: 40/1
Anthony Wright
The Chosen Two
CONMEBOL were left in a rather tricky situation last year following the worldwide swine flu epidemic. With Mexico one of the worst affected nations, it had closed its boarders in an attempt to contain the outbreak. The South American Football Federation were therefore faced with the dilemma over where San Luis and Chivas would play their home fixtures.
San Luis and Chivas had qualified for the second round and were set to face Nacional of Uruguay and Sao Paulo respectively. Following a number of suggestions and official announcements – including single leg ties and alternative venues - the Mexican FA pulled both teams from the competition and severed all links to CONMEBOL.
Fast-forward 12 months and an amicable agreement has finally been found. San Luis and Chivas Guadalajara have received a bye into the second round of this year’s competition.
San Luis (Mexico)
Previous best: Second Round (2009)
San Luis made their Libertadores debut last year and did well to qualify for the second round. Going into the final group game they had to beat group leaders Libertad of Paraguay away from home and make up a difference of four goals in the process. A 2-0 win followed before the swine flu epidemic brought their campaign to an end. The Gladiadores (Gladiators) won’t have the task of battling through the group stage this year and will hope prolific Argentinian striker Alfredo Moreno can fire them into the latter stages.
Star Man: Alfredo Moreno
Expectations: San Luis will believe they are in with a shout and much will depend on how quickly they find their Libertadores groove in the absence of the group games.
Odds: 20/1
Chivas Guadalajara (Mexico)
Previous best: Semi-finals (2005)
One of the best supported teams in the Americas, 11-time Primera Division champions Chivas famously deploy a philosophy of fielding only Mexican-born players. With four wins in their four Clausura Group 1 Table so far this season, El Rebano Sagrado (The Sacred Herd) are flying and will be hoping for more of the same from 21-year-old forward Javier Hernandez, who has already grabbed seven goals this campaign. With the likes of Jonny Magallo and Alberto Medina, both celebrated internationals, Chivas have a good blend of youth and experience and the 2009 InterLiga champions are a good bet for glory at 14/1.
Star Man: Javier Hernandez
Expectations: Chivas are one of the favourites and will be going all out for their first Libertadores crown.
Odds: 14/1
Rupert Fryer
More preview material can be found on Goal.com and www.southamericanfootball.co.uk.
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