The first of the two-leg finale between Ecuador’s LDU Quito and Brazil’s Fluminense kicked off this evening at La Casa Blanca Stadium with minimal global attention due to today’s riveting Euro 2008 semi-final between Germany and Turkey.
The 49th edition of the Copa Libertadores has all the makings of a classic as both teams battle for South America’s most prestigious club honor.
LDU Quito has qualified for the tournament every year since 2004. This year the team is lead by several players including Argentine Damian Manso and Ecuadorian Franklin Salas. “Tin” Delgado may be counted on as well to provide in the attack.
Fluminense, like LDU Quito, is also in search of the club’s first Copa Libertadores crown. 33-year-old forward Washington leads the outfit. He has six goals in the tournament and has revitalized the squad since his return to Brazil.
The second leg of the final will be played on July 2nd at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
Prediction: Washington and Fluminense complete the task adding another Brazilian club’s name to the list of Copa Liabertadores champions.
