Veteran Brazilian defender Marcelo hailed the Copa Libertadores title he won with boyhood club Fluminense on Saturday as the biggest of his career, ahead of the Champions League trophies he lifted with Real Madrid.

The Brazilian team claimed its first title in the CONMEBOL South American club competition for the first time in its history after beating Argentina's Boca Juniors 2-1 in extra time.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fluminense-beat-boca-juniors-in-extra-time-to-lift-maiden-copa-libertadores-title-655302">Fluminense beat Boca Juniors in extra time to lift maiden Copa Libertadores title</a>

The 35-year-old defender won not only the Champions League five times in his 16 seasons with Real Madrid but also six LaLiga titles, five Spanish Super Cups, four Club World Cups, three European Super Cups and two Copa del Rey trophies.

In all, he has been on the winning side in 18 of the 21 club-level finals he has played in.

Marcelo, who started Saturday's final and was substituted at half-time, returned to his boyhood club in February after a spell with Greek side Olympiakos following his departure from the Spanish giants.

"Real Madrid will understand. It's my most important title, at club level, because it's the club that raised me," Marcelo told ESPN.

"I'm winning a very important title with my favourite club, the club that gave me all the tools to have my career, with the employees who saw me grow up. There's nothing more rewarding than that. It's priceless," he added.

Winning the Copa Libertadores as well as the Champions League means Marcelo has joined a group of 15 players including Ronaldinho, Neymar and Julian Alvarez to conquer both intercontinental club tournaments.

"I owed a debt to Fluminense. It was written (that we would win the championship)," he said.

Veteran Brazilian defender Marcelo hailed the Copa Libertadores title he won with boyhood club Fluminense on Saturday as the biggest of his career, ahead of the Champions League trophies he lifted with Real Madrid.

Veteran Brazilian defender Marcelo hailed the Copa Libertadores title he won with boyhood club Fluminense on Saturday as the biggest of his career, ahead of the Champions League trophies he lifted with Real Madrid. The Brazilian team claimed its first title in the CONMEBOL South American club competition for the first time in its history after beating Argentina's Boca Juniors 2-1 in extra time. ALSO READ: Fluminense beat Boca Juniors in extra time to lift maiden Copa Libertadores title The 35-year-old defender won not only the Champions League five times in his 16 seasons with Real Madrid but also six LaLiga titles, five Spanish Super Cups, four Club World Cups, three European Super Cups and two Copa del Rey trophies. In all, he has been on the winning side in 18 of the 21 club-level finals he has played in. Marcelo, who started Saturday's final and was substituted at half-time, returned to his boyhood club in February after a spell with Greek side Olympiakos following his departure from the Spanish giants. "Real Madrid will understand. It's my most important title, at club level, because it's the club that raised me," Marcelo told ESPN. "I'm winning a very important title with my favourite club, the club that gave me all the tools to have my career, with the employees who saw me grow up. There's nothing more rewarding than that. It's priceless," he added. Winning the Copa Libertadores as well as the Champions League means Marcelo has joined a group of 15 players including Ronaldinho, Neymar and Julian Alvarez to conquer both intercontinental club tournaments. "I owed a debt to Fluminense. It was written (that we would win the championship)," he said.

Winning Copa Libertadores bigger than lifting Champions League title with Real Madrid - Marcelo

Brazil's Fluminense beat Argentina's Boca Juniors 2-1 in extra time to win the Copa Libertadores for the first time, thanks to John Kennedy's 99th-minute goal at the Maracana on Saturday.

Argentine forward German Cano gave Fluminense the lead with a 36th minute strike but Luis Advincula equalised for Jorge Almiron's side in the second half with a long-range effort.

Kennedy's unstoppable shot gave Fluminense the spoils in extra time, though two minutes later the striker was sent off for excessive celebrations that got him a second yellow card.

Before the end of the first half of extra time a brawl broke out between the players with Boca's Frank Fabra slapping Fluminense captain Nino for which he was sent off.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/cincinnati-advances-to-mls-east-playoffs-after-win-over-new-york-red-bulls-655234">Cincinnati advances to MLS East Playoffs after win over New York Red bulls</a>

"I recovered the ball for my son Lorenzo. I can tell him now that I am champion of the Libertadores," said Cano, whose 13th goal this season in the competition was as many as the total scored by all of Boca's players combined.

"I want to dedicate this title to my family, the team, our director and the fans. It was a dream that we wanted to achieve since the first game," he added.

Fluminense's Fernando Diniz, who is also Brazil's interim coach, finally delivered the elusive trophy - the equivalent to Europe's Champions League - for a team who lost the 2008 final.

"We had a lot of chances today but in the end, we failed to capitalise on the opportunity to take advantage of the extra man," said Boca goalkeeper Sergio Romero.

"I think we did a great cup (run), we thank the people and we regret not giving them a joy today."

Boca were aiming for a seventh Libertadores crown but have now lost their last three finals after defeats in 2012 and 2018.

Brazil's Fluminense beat Argentina's Boca Juniors 2-1 in extra time to win the Copa Libertadores for the first time, thanks to John Kennedy's 99th-minute goal at the Maracana on Saturday.

Brazil's Fluminense beat Argentina's Boca Juniors 2-1 in extra time to win the Copa Libertadores for the first time, thanks to John Kennedy's 99th-minute goal at the Maracana on Saturday. Argentine forward German Cano gave Fluminense the lead with a 36th minute strike but Luis Advincula equalised for Jorge Almiron's side in the second half with a long-range effort. Kennedy's unstoppable shot gave Fluminense the spoils in extra time, though two minutes later the striker was sent off for excessive celebrations that got him a second yellow card. Before the end of the first half of extra time a brawl broke out between the players with Boca's Frank Fabra slapping Fluminense captain Nino for which he was sent off. ALSO READ: Cincinnati advances to MLS East Playoffs after win over New York Red bulls "I recovered the ball for my son Lorenzo. I can tell him now that I am champion of the Libertadores," said Cano, whose 13th goal this season in the competition was as many as the total scored by all of Boca's players combined. "I want to dedicate this title to my family, the team, our director and the fans. It was a dream that we wanted to achieve since the first game," he added. Fluminense's Fernando Diniz, who is also Brazil's interim coach, finally delivered the elusive trophy - the equivalent to Europe's Champions League - for a team who lost the 2008 final. "We had a lot of chances today but in the end, we failed to capitalise on the opportunity to take advantage of the extra man," said Boca goalkeeper Sergio Romero. "I think we did a great cup (run), we thank the people and we regret not giving them a joy today." Boca were aiming for a seventh Libertadores crown but have now lost their last three finals after defeats in 2012 and 2018.

Fluminense beat Boca Juniors in extra time to lift maiden Copa Libertadores title

Boca&nbsp;Juniors beat Barcelona on penalties on Tuesday in Riyadh, in a friendly match in honour of Diego Maradona, marked by the return of Brazilian Dani Alves to the Spanish club.&nbsp;

Ferran Jutgla gave Barca the lead in the 50th minute but Exequiel Zeballos levelled mid-way through the second half and the match finished 1-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-striker-sergio-aguero-announces-retirement-from-football-due-to-heart-problems-watch-437144">Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero announces retirement from football due to heart problems - WATCH</a>

The Argentines then won the inaugural 'Maradona Cup' 4-2 in a penalty shootout.

Alves, 38, has rejoined Barcelona where he played between 2008-2016 and won three Champions League titles and La Liga six times; but is ineligible to appear in competitive matches until the transfer window opens early next year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-2021-22-rahul-bhekes-last-moment-strike-help-mumbai-city-fc-beat-chennaiyin-fc-consolidate-lead-437216">ISL 2021-22: Rahul Bheke's last moment strike help Mumbai City FC beat Chennaiyin FC, consolidate lead</a>

He was a free agent after leaving Sao Paulo in September following a dispute over unpaid wages.

Right-back Alves was busy and dangerous, and converted his penalty in the shootout.&nbsp;

Boca Juniors beat Barcelona on penalties on Tuesday in Riyadh, in a friendly match in honour of Diego Maradona, marked by the return of Brazilian Dani Alves to the Spanish club.

Boca Juniors beat Barcelona on penalties on Tuesday in Riyadh, in a friendly match in honour of Diego Maradona, marked by the return of Brazilian Dani Alves to the Spanish club. Ferran Jutgla gave Barca the lead in the 50th minute but Exequiel Zeballos levelled mid-way through the second half and the match finished 1-1. ALSO READ: Barcelona striker Sergio Aguero announces retirement from football due to heart problems - WATCH The Argentines then won the inaugural 'Maradona Cup' 4-2 in a penalty shootout. Alves, 38, has rejoined Barcelona where he played between 2008-2016 and won three Champions League titles and La Liga six times; but is ineligible to appear in competitive matches until the transfer window opens early next year. ALSO READ: ISL 2021-22: Rahul Bheke's last moment strike help Mumbai City FC beat Chennaiyin FC, consolidate lead He was a free agent after leaving Sao Paulo in September following a dispute over unpaid wages. Right-back Alves was busy and dangerous, and converted his penalty in the shootout.

Boca Juniors beat Barcelona in a penalty shootout in inaugural Maradona Cup

River Plate make triumphal return to Monumental Stadium after Liberators Cup win

Boca Juniors president Daniel Angelici said Friday that the club will not renew the contract of coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto, putting an end to his three-year tenure with the Buenos Aires side.

In the first press conference since Boca's defeat by River Plate in the final of the Copa Libertadores, Angelici and Barros Schelotto at times appeared to be on the verge of tears.

"The best thing for Boca is to start the year with a new coaching staff. This is not a goodbye but rather a so long to the kind of idol that Guillermo was both as a player and as coach," the club president said.

Barros Schelotto spent most of his 16-year playing career with Boca, winning 17 titles and scoring 86 goals. As manager, he led the side to two Argentine championships.

Turning to last Sunday's loss to Boca's cross-town nemesis, Angelici said: "And one team wins the final and a I regret that against the classic rival, we could not bring the cup to the club."

"I want to thank the executives, the Boca employees, the players and - fundamentally - the fans for how they have treated me these three years," Barros Schelotto said.

"Beyond the pain and not having won the Copa Libertadores, I'm leaving with the peace of mind of having given everything. The decision we have made is the best thing for Boca," he said.

Boca Juniors president Daniel Angelici said Friday that the club will not renew the contract of coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto, putting an end to his three-year tenure with the Buenos Aires side.

Boca Juniors president Daniel Angelici said Friday that the club will not renew the contract of coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto, putting an end to his three-year tenure with the Buenos Aires side. In the first press conference since Boca's defeat by River Plate in the final of the Copa Libertadores, Angelici and Barros Schelotto at times appeared to be on the verge of tears. "The best thing for Boca is to start the year with a new coaching staff. This is not a goodbye but rather a so long to the kind of idol that Guillermo was both as a player and as coach," the club president said. Barros Schelotto spent most of his 16-year playing career with Boca, winning 17 titles and scoring 86 goals. As manager, he led the side to two Argentine championships. Turning to last Sunday's loss to Boca's cross-town nemesis, Angelici said: "And one team wins the final and a I regret that against the classic rival, we could not bring the cup to the club." "I want to thank the executives, the Boca employees, the players and - fundamentally - the fans for how they have treated me these three years," Barros Schelotto said. "Beyond the pain and not having won the Copa Libertadores, I'm leaving with the peace of mind of having given everything. The decision we have made is the best thing for Boca," he said.

Boca Juniors part ways with coach after Copa Libertadores loss

River&nbsp;Plate&nbsp;midfielder Juan Quintero said his side were worthy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/river-plate-snatch-libertadores-glory-over-boca-in-madrid-182756">Copa Libertadores champions</a> after his stunning extra-time goal in Sunday's 3-1 victory over fierce Argentine rivals Boca Juniors in Madrid.

Colombia playmaker Quintero powered in an unstoppable strike from the edge of the area to hand&nbsp;River&nbsp;a 2-1 lead after 109 minutes of the final's second leg before Gonzalo Martinez sealed a dramatic 5-3 aggregate victory with the final kick.

"We deserved this title. It was difficult because Boca are a very tactical side and very physical in terms of winning back the ball. We knew we'd have to fight until the end," Quintero told Fox Sports.

His goal came after Lucas Pratto cancelled out a first-half effort by Boca's Dario Benedetto to send the tie into an additional 30 minutes, with no away goals rule in the final.

Boca suffered a costly blow at the start of extra time when Wilmar Barrios was sent off for a second booking, and&nbsp;River&nbsp;took full advantage to clinch a fourth Copa Libertadores title.

"I got the space, I controlled and I shot. I worked on it and luckily that led to a great goal. Now, we have to celebrate it!" said Quintero.

River Plate midfielder Juan Quintero said his side were worthy Copa Libertadores champions after his stunning extra-time goal in Sunday's 3-1 victory over fierce Argentine rivals Boca Juniors in Madrid.

River Plate midfielder Juan Quintero said his side were worthy Copa Libertadores champions after his stunning extra-time goal in Sunday's 3-1 victory over fierce Argentine rivals Boca Juniors in Madrid. Colombia playmaker Quintero powered in an unstoppable strike from the edge of the area to hand River a 2-1 lead after 109 minutes of the final's second leg before Gonzalo Martinez sealed a dramatic 5-3 aggregate victory with the final kick. "We deserved this title. It was difficult because Boca are a very tactical side and very physical in terms of winning back the ball. We knew we'd have to fight until the end," Quintero told Fox Sports. His goal came after Lucas Pratto cancelled out a first-half effort by Boca's Dario Benedetto to send the tie into an additional 30 minutes, with no away goals rule in the final. Boca suffered a costly blow at the start of extra time when Wilmar Barrios was sent off for a second booking, and River took full advantage to clinch a fourth Copa Libertadores title. "I got the space, I controlled and I shot. I worked on it and luckily that led to a great goal. Now, we have to celebrate it!" said Quintero.

'We deserved it,' says River Plate hero Quintero after winning Copa Libertadores title

River Plate battled back from a goal down to beat arch Argentine rivals Boca Juniors 3-1 after extra-time in the rescheduled Copa Libertadores final second leg which was controversially played in Madrid after violence had seen the original game postponed.

Dario Benedetto put Boca ahead on at the end of a bruising first half at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

But River, who also came back twice in the 2-2 draw in the first leg at Boca's Bombonera stadium, levelled in the 68th minute through striker Lucas Pratto after a superb team move.

River were given a huge advantage when Boca midfielder Wilmar Barrios was sent off in the third minute of extra-time and seized it thanks to a sizzling strike from Colombia international Juan Fernando Quintero in the 109th minute.

Gonzalo Martinez sealed victory, 5-3 on aggregate, at the death with a tap in after Boca's entire team had poured forward in search of an equaliser, giving River a fourth Libertadores title and denying Boca a record-equalling seventh.

River's victory means they will represent South America in the Club World Cup that starts in the United Arab Emirates on Dec. 12.

The game was moved 10,000 kilometres away from River's Monumental stadium to Madrid as Boca's team bus had been ambushed before the originally scheduled game, leaving several Boca players injured from the impact of the smashed windows and from tear gas that had been fired by police.

It meant that instead of a home game with the exclusive presence of River supporters, Real Madrid's Bernabeu was equally-divided between fans of both sides, a highly unusual situation in the Copa Libertadores.

There was also a deep sense of irony at the fact a competition named in honour of the liberators of South America was to be played in the home of their former rulers.

Despite the controversy, a total of 10,000 fans made the long journey over from Argentina for the occasion, with the nation's considerable expatriate communities across Europe (250,000 reside in Spain alone) also flooding in to the Spanish capital, creating a carnival atmosphere that was mostly cordial.

Spanish police had mounted the biggest ever security operation for a football match in the country, deploying over 4,000 personnel including more than 2,000 police officers.

River Plate battled back from a goal down to beat arch Argentine rivals Boca Juniors 3-1 after extra-time in the rescheduled Copa Libertadores final second leg which was controversially played in Madrid after violence had seen the original game postponed.

River Plate battled back from a goal down to beat arch Argentine rivals Boca Juniors 3-1 after extra-time in the rescheduled Copa Libertadores final second leg which was controversially played in Madrid after violence had seen the original game postponed. Dario Benedetto put Boca ahead on at the end of a bruising first half at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium. But River, who also came back twice in the 2-2 draw in the first leg at Boca's Bombonera stadium, levelled in the 68th minute through striker Lucas Pratto after a superb team move. River were given a huge advantage when Boca midfielder Wilmar Barrios was sent off in the third minute of extra-time and seized it thanks to a sizzling strike from Colombia international Juan Fernando Quintero in the 109th minute. Gonzalo Martinez sealed victory, 5-3 on aggregate, at the death with a tap in after Boca's entire team had poured forward in search of an equaliser, giving River a fourth Libertadores title and denying Boca a record-equalling seventh. River's victory means they will represent South America in the Club World Cup that starts in the United Arab Emirates on Dec. 12. The game was moved 10,000 kilometres away from River's Monumental stadium to Madrid as Boca's team bus had been ambushed before the originally scheduled game, leaving several Boca players injured from the impact of the smashed windows and from tear gas that had been fired by police. It meant that instead of a home game with the exclusive presence of River supporters, Real Madrid's Bernabeu was equally-divided between fans of both sides, a highly unusual situation in the Copa Libertadores. There was also a deep sense of irony at the fact a competition named in honour of the liberators of South America was to be played in the home of their former rulers. Despite the controversy, a total of 10,000 fans made the long journey over from Argentina for the occasion, with the nation's considerable expatriate communities across Europe (250,000 reside in Spain alone) also flooding in to the Spanish capital, creating a carnival atmosphere that was mostly cordial. Spanish police had mounted the biggest ever security operation for a football match in the country, deploying over 4,000 personnel including more than 2,000 police officers.

River Plate snatch Libertadores glory over Boca in Madrid

What is behind the fierce rivalry between River Plate and Boca Juniors?

The South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced Thursday that their appeals committee dismissed the appeal filed by Boca Juniors on November 30, following decisions after the aggression against some of the team's players before the second leg final of the Copa Libertadores.

The Boca Juniors team appealed the ruling issued by the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal on November 29, which rejected Boca's request for points for the second leg of the final against River Plate, which could not be played on November 24 due to acts of violence outside the River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires.

In this Thursday's announcement, CONMEBOL not only rejected Boca's appeal but also reaffirmed the decision of their Disciplinary Tribunal.

The rulings and appeals at CONMEBOL began on November 24, when violent altercations of the supporters of River Plate to the bus and players of Boca caused the suspension of the game and its postponement, initially for 24 hours.&nbsp;

On November 25 the match was not played either and the two clubs were summoned to a meeting in Asuncion (Paraguay) to decide the final date.

CONMEBOL decided on 27 November that the final would be played on either November 8 or 9 and on a neutral field, a decision that did not please Boca, who then requested the suspension of the match, their proclamation as champions and the disqualification of River Plate.

Two days later, on the 29th of last month, the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal dismissed Boca's claim and ordered the match to be played.

Finally, the meeting between the two Argentine teams will be on November 9 at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, in Madrid, by the decision of CONMEBOL.

The South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced Thursday that their appeals committee dismissed the appeal filed by Boca Juniors on November 30, following decisions after the aggression against some of the team's players before the second leg final of the Copa Libertadores.

The South American Soccer Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced Thursday that their appeals committee dismissed the appeal filed by Boca Juniors on November 30, following decisions after the aggression against some of the team's players before the second leg final of the Copa Libertadores. The Boca Juniors team appealed the ruling issued by the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal on November 29, which rejected Boca's request for points for the second leg of the final against River Plate, which could not be played on November 24 due to acts of violence outside the River Plate Stadium in Buenos Aires. In this Thursday's announcement, CONMEBOL not only rejected Boca's appeal but also reaffirmed the decision of their Disciplinary Tribunal. The rulings and appeals at CONMEBOL began on November 24, when violent altercations of the supporters of River Plate to the bus and players of Boca caused the suspension of the game and its postponement, initially for 24 hours. On November 25 the match was not played either and the two clubs were summoned to a meeting in Asuncion (Paraguay) to decide the final date. CONMEBOL decided on 27 November that the final would be played on either November 8 or 9 and on a neutral field, a decision that did not please Boca, who then requested the suspension of the match, their proclamation as champions and the disqualification of River Plate. Two days later, on the 29th of last month, the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Tribunal dismissed Boca's claim and ordered the match to be played. Finally, the meeting between the two Argentine teams will be on November 9 at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, in Madrid, by the decision of CONMEBOL.

CONMEBOL rejects appeal filed by Boca after Copa Libertadores altercations

River Plate prepare for Copa Libertadores final against Boca Juniors

Boca Juniors landed in Madrid on Wednesday as they prepare to face fellow Argentine club and their biggest rivals River Plate in the Copa Libertadores final second leg amid the biggest security operation for a match the city has mounted.

A noisy caravan of around 5,000 Boca supporters accompanied the team bus in the early hours of the morning as it headed from their Bombonera stadium to Buenos Aires airport.

An estimated 10,000 fans in total from both teams are expected to travel from Argentina for the twice postponed and then relocated game now being played on Sunday at Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium during a holiday weekend in Spain's capital.

With the potential arrival of tens of thousands more Argentines living in Europe, Spanish police have described it as the highest risk match in Madrid's history.

More than 2,500 officers are expected to be on duty for the 'Superclasico', one of the world's fiercest soccer rivalries. Police have also asked for support from Argentine security.

River Plate will leave Argentina at 1700 GMT and are set to land early on Thursday morning in Madrid.

Bus Attacked

The teams drew 2-2 in the first leg at Boca's ground but the second leg, originally scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires on Nov. 24, was twice postponed after River supporters attacked Boca's team bus outside the Monumental Stadium.

Boca players sustained injuries after rocks were thrown and at the bus and pepper spray was used. The South American soccer confederation (CONMEBOL) switched the match to Madrid after initially arranging for it to take place at River one day later.

Madrid's Paseo de la Castellana, one of the city's main roads, will be cut off from 9 am local time (0800 GMT) on Sunday as police divide the two groups of fans to prevent violence.

Supporters will arrive on club specific flights and be taken on buses to their respective fan zones after they arrive at Adolfo Suarez Madrid Barajas airport.

Although each of the finalists will get 25,000 tickets for the game, they are only permitted to sell 5,000 to supporters living in Argentina in a bid to stop the notoriously violent 'barra brava' ultras from travelling to the game.

Police have arrested one of the fans they said took part in the Nov. 24 attack and others have been identified and are being sought, Argentine law enforcement officials said on Wednesday.

River said they had suspended the man, who is a club member, and would seek to ban him from future matches.

Boca Juniors landed in Madrid on Wednesday as they prepare to face fellow Argentine club and their biggest rivals River Plate in the Copa Libertadores final second leg amid the biggest security operation for a match the city has mounted.

Boca Juniors landed in Madrid on Wednesday as they prepare to face fellow Argentine club and their biggest rivals River Plate in the Copa Libertadores final second leg amid the biggest security operation for a match the city has mounted. A noisy caravan of around 5,000 Boca supporters accompanied the team bus in the early hours of the morning as it headed from their Bombonera stadium to Buenos Aires airport. An estimated 10,000 fans in total from both teams are expected to travel from Argentina for the twice postponed and then relocated game now being played on Sunday at Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium during a holiday weekend in Spain's capital. With the potential arrival of tens of thousands more Argentines living in Europe, Spanish police have described it as the highest risk match in Madrid's history. More than 2,500 officers are expected to be on duty for the 'Superclasico', one of the world's fiercest soccer rivalries. Police have also asked for support from Argentine security. River Plate will leave Argentina at 1700 GMT and are set to land early on Thursday morning in Madrid. Bus Attacked The teams drew 2-2 in the first leg at Boca's ground but the second leg, originally scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires on Nov. 24, was twice postponed after River supporters attacked Boca's team bus outside the Monumental Stadium. Boca players sustained injuries after rocks were thrown and at the bus and pepper spray was used. The South American soccer confederation (CONMEBOL) switched the match to Madrid after initially arranging for it to take place at River one day later. Madrid's Paseo de la Castellana, one of the city's main roads, will be cut off from 9 am local time (0800 GMT) on Sunday as police divide the two groups of fans to prevent violence. Supporters will arrive on club specific flights and be taken on buses to their respective fan zones after they arrive at Adolfo Suarez Madrid Barajas airport. Although each of the finalists will get 25,000 tickets for the game, they are only permitted to sell 5,000 to supporters living in Argentina in a bid to stop the notoriously violent 'barra brava' ultras from travelling to the game. Police have arrested one of the fans they said took part in the Nov. 24 attack and others have been identified and are being sought, Argentine law enforcement officials said on Wednesday. River said they had suspended the man, who is a club member, and would seek to ban him from future matches.

Boca Juniors land in Madrid amid tight security for Libertadores

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/postponed-libertadores-final-to-be-played-in-madrid-180390">choice of Madrid</a> to host the Copa Libertadores final between Argentine clubs River Plate and Boca Juniors next week is "irreversible," South American Soccer Confederation (Conmebol) president Alejandro Dominguez said. 
 
The Conmebol official said in a press conference ahead of the Women's Under-17 World Cup Saturday in the Uruguayan capital that Spain was a perfect host because it was home to the largest number of Argentines living outside the South American country. 
 
Dominguez said that when he proposed playing the second leg of South America's premier club tournament final on December 9 in the Spanish capital to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, "the response was that of a friend." 
 
Perez asked for a moment to think the plan over and promised to return the call "in two minutes," the Conmebol official said. 
 
"Two minutes later, he returned my call and said that not only was it a good (idea), but that (Real Madrid's Santiago) Bernabeu (Stadium) was at our disposable at no cost for this match," Dominguez said. 
 
Last Thursday, Conmebol decided that Real Madrid's stadium would be the venue for the match between River and crosstown arch-rival Boca Juniors on December 9, after fan violence forced the indefinite postponement of a contest originally scheduled to be played at River's El Monumental Stadium last weekend. 
 
The first leg was played on November 11 at Boca's La Bombonera Stadium and ended in a 2-2 draw. Away fans had been barred from both legs of the final as a precautionary measure. 
 
Fans hurled projectiles in a November 24 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/libertadores-final-postponed-after-boca-bus-attacked-players-hurt-179328">attack on Boca's team bus</a> and shattered some of the vehicle's windows, while the police's use of pepper spray to drive away the assailants affected some Boca players. 
 
On Saturday, River Plate said it <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/river-plate-reject-libertadores-final-in-madrid-180844">rejected the decision</a> by Conmebol to move the Copa Libertadores final to Madrid, saying it bore no responsibility for the attack on the bus as it was arriving at the stadium for the match because it occurred outside of a security perimeter. 
 
The club said the decision also would deny the rights of 66,000 River fans to see the match in person, noting that those supporters had waited for hours on both November 24 and November&nbsp;25 (the match had initially been rescheduled for that Sunday) to see the much-anticipated game. 
 
The Copa Libertadores final is scheduled to be played next Sunday at 8:30 pm in Madrid, Conmebol said.

The choice of Madrid to host the Copa Libertadores final between Argentine clubs River Plate and Boca Juniors next week is "irreversible," South American Soccer Confederation (Conmebol) president Alejandro Dominguez said.

The choice of Madrid to host the Copa Libertadores final between Argentine clubs River Plate and Boca Juniors next week is "irreversible," South American Soccer Confederation (Conmebol) president Alejandro Dominguez said. The Conmebol official said in a press conference ahead of the Women's Under-17 World Cup Saturday in the Uruguayan capital that Spain was a perfect host because it was home to the largest number of Argentines living outside the South American country. Dominguez said that when he proposed playing the second leg of South America's premier club tournament final on December 9 in the Spanish capital to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, "the response was that of a friend." Perez asked for a moment to think the plan over and promised to return the call "in two minutes," the Conmebol official said. "Two minutes later, he returned my call and said that not only was it a good (idea), but that (Real Madrid's Santiago) Bernabeu (Stadium) was at our disposable at no cost for this match," Dominguez said. Last Thursday, Conmebol decided that Real Madrid's stadium would be the venue for the match between River and crosstown arch-rival Boca Juniors on December 9, after fan violence forced the indefinite postponement of a contest originally scheduled to be played at River's El Monumental Stadium last weekend. The first leg was played on November 11 at Boca's La Bombonera Stadium and ended in a 2-2 draw. Away fans had been barred from both legs of the final as a precautionary measure. Fans hurled projectiles in a November 24 attack on Boca's team bus and shattered some of the vehicle's windows, while the police's use of pepper spray to drive away the assailants affected some Boca players. On Saturday, River Plate said it rejected the decision by Conmebol to move the Copa Libertadores final to Madrid, saying it bore no responsibility for the attack on the bus as it was arriving at the stadium for the match because it occurred outside of a security perimeter. The club said the decision also would deny the rights of 66,000 River fans to see the match in person, noting that those supporters had waited for hours on both November 24 and November 25 (the match had initially been rescheduled for that Sunday) to see the much-anticipated game. The Copa Libertadores final is scheduled to be played next Sunday at 8:30 pm in Madrid, Conmebol said.

Choice of Madrid for Libertadores final will not be changed: Conmebol

The troubled <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Copa+Libertadores">Copa Libertadores</a> final between Argentina's two biggest clubs ran into more problems on Saturday when <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=River+Plate">River Plate</a> said they rejected the decision to face <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=boca+juniors">Boca Juniors</a> in Madrid in the postponed second leg.

In the latest twist to the saga, River, the home team, said it was "incomprehensible" that the fixture should be played outside Argentina, although the club stopped short of saying they would refuse to play.

The hugely-anticipated match at River Plate's Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires was called off on Nov. 24 after the Boca team bus was attacked with stones and bottles as it approached the ground.

Several players were hit by shattered glass and some were affected by tear gas or pepper spray.

The match was rescheduled for the following day but was again postponed. The first leg in Boca's stadium had ended 2-2 one week earlier.

On Thursday the South American Football Confederation CONMEBOL announced the decision to move the game to Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium on Dec. 9.

"River Plate reject the change of venue," the club said in a statement, adding that moving the game to Madrid "adversely affects those who bought tickets and also upsets the idea of equal conditions by taking away home advantage".

However, River did not say what action they would take if CONMEBOL stood by its decision.

River were fined $400,000 for the incidents and ordered to play their next two home matches in South American club competition behind closed doors. However, Boca have said they will appeal against the decision which they consider too lenient.

CONMEBOL ignored the appeals on Saturday and released information on ticket sales but although each team have been allocated 25,000, they must sell most of that allowance to fans outside Argentina.

"For security reasons local authorities have decided to give each team 5,000 tickets to sell to their fans in Argentina," CONMEBOL said.

The other 20,000 could be sold only to fans living abroad, CONMEBOL said in a statement. The teams must provide lists of the 5,000 names who buy the Argentina allowance.

Boca themselves were thrown out of the Libertadores in 2015 after River players were attacked with pepper spray by fans at halftime during the second leg of a knockout tie at the Bombonera stadium. Boca say they want the same standards to apply to River.

River said the attack on the bus happened outside the area which was considered the club's responsibility.

"The responsibility for the failure of the security operation was openly accepted by the highest authorities of the state," it said.

"It's incomprehensible that the most important fixture in Argentine football cannot take place in the country which is hosting the G20.

"Argentine football as a whole... cannot allow a handful of thugs to stop the Superclasico from taking place in our country."

It is the first time that the two clubs have met in the final of the competition, which is the South American equivalent of the Champions League.

From next season onwards, the final will be played in a single match at a neutral venue - a decision which CONMEBOL had already taken before last month's trouble.

The troubled Copa Libertadores final between Argentina's two biggest clubs ran into more problems on Saturday when River Plate said they rejected the decision to face Boca Juniors in Madrid in the postponed second leg.

The troubled Copa Libertadores final between Argentina's two biggest clubs ran into more problems on Saturday when River Plate said they rejected the decision to face Boca Juniors in Madrid in the postponed second leg. In the latest twist to the saga, River, the home team, said it was "incomprehensible" that the fixture should be played outside Argentina, although the club stopped short of saying they would refuse to play. The hugely-anticipated match at River Plate's Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires was called off on Nov. 24 after the Boca team bus was attacked with stones and bottles as it approached the ground. Several players were hit by shattered glass and some were affected by tear gas or pepper spray. The match was rescheduled for the following day but was again postponed. The first leg in Boca's stadium had ended 2-2 one week earlier. On Thursday the South American Football Confederation CONMEBOL announced the decision to move the game to Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium on Dec. 9. "River Plate reject the change of venue," the club said in a statement, adding that moving the game to Madrid "adversely affects those who bought tickets and also upsets the idea of equal conditions by taking away home advantage". However, River did not say what action they would take if CONMEBOL stood by its decision. River were fined $400,000 for the incidents and ordered to play their next two home matches in South American club competition behind closed doors. However, Boca have said they will appeal against the decision which they consider too lenient. CONMEBOL ignored the appeals on Saturday and released information on ticket sales but although each team have been allocated 25,000, they must sell most of that allowance to fans outside Argentina. "For security reasons local authorities have decided to give each team 5,000 tickets to sell to their fans in Argentina," CONMEBOL said. The other 20,000 could be sold only to fans living abroad, CONMEBOL said in a statement. The teams must provide lists of the 5,000 names who buy the Argentina allowance. Boca themselves were thrown out of the Libertadores in 2015 after River players were attacked with pepper spray by fans at halftime during the second leg of a knockout tie at the Bombonera stadium. Boca say they want the same standards to apply to River. River said the attack on the bus happened outside the area which was considered the club's responsibility. "The responsibility for the failure of the security operation was openly accepted by the highest authorities of the state," it said. "It's incomprehensible that the most important fixture in Argentine football cannot take place in the country which is hosting the G20. "Argentine football as a whole... cannot allow a handful of thugs to stop the Superclasico from taking place in our country." It is the first time that the two clubs have met in the final of the competition, which is the South American equivalent of the Champions League. From next season onwards, the final will be played in a single match at a neutral venue - a decision which CONMEBOL had already taken before last month's trouble.

River Plate reject Libertadores final in Madrid

The postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between Argentine clubs River Plate and Boca Juniors will be played at Real Madrid's stadium on December the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Thursday.

The match, originally scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires last Saturday but <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/libertadores-final-postponed-after-boca-bus-attacked-players-hurt-179328">postponed</a> after Boca players were hurt when River supporters <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/riots-break-out-in-argentina-after-boca-juniors-bus-is-attacked-179326">attacked their coach</a>, will take place in the Spanish capital on Sunday, December 9 at 8:30 pm (1930 GMT).

"The decision is that this game is going to be played in front of fans from both clubs in Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium," CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez said.

"(Madrid) is not only one of the safest cities in the world, the Santiago Bernabeu is an elite stadium that offers the highest standards of security and comfort for an encounter of this magnitude."

This year was the first time that Argentina's two biggest teams had met in the final of South America's equivalent of the Champions League and as usual away supporters were banned from both legs because of recurring fan violence.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="383" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GxMhL2PsTdc" width="683"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The clubs drew the first leg 2-2 at Boca's ground in Buenos Aires and were due to play the second match across town at River's Monumental stadium last Saturday.

Boca players sustained injuries, however, when River fans attacked their coach as it approached the stadium and the game was first delayed until Sunday before being postponed indefinitely.

A CONMEBOL tribunal on Thursday also ruled against Boca's appeal to be awarded the match because of the violence but River were fined $400,000 and ordered to play their next two matches in continental competition behind closed doors.

Boca Juniors said it rejected the tribunal's decision and would appeal.

The violent incidents outside the Monumental were beamed around the world, embarrassing Argentina days before this weekend's G20 summit in Buenos Aires.

The task will now fall on Spanish authorities to ensure the game between two of the bitterest rivals in sport goes ahead peacefully at the 81,044-capacity Bernabeu.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Twitter that his government were ready to host the match and were already working with law enforcement authorities to ensure security for the event.

Qatar, Miami, and stadiums in Brazil and Colombia were among the other possible venues discussed for the biggest game in the 58-year history of the Libertadores Cup.

Spain's position as a footballing hotbed with excellent flight connections to Latin America swung the decision in Madrid's favour, however.

"The world is asking for an example of chivalry, sportsmanship and sporting values," Dominguez said.

"Football is not about violence."

The winners of the final will have little time to celebrate before representing CONMEBOL in the Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

The tournament kicks off three days after the rescheduled second leg on December 12 with the South American champions due to play their first match on December 18.

The postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between Argentine clubs River Plate and Boca Juniors will be played at Real Madrid's stadium on December the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Thursday.

The postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between Argentine clubs River Plate and Boca Juniors will be played at Real Madrid's stadium on December the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Thursday. The match, originally scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires last Saturday but postponed after Boca players were hurt when River supporters attacked their coach, will take place in the Spanish capital on Sunday, December 9 at 8:30 pm (1930 GMT). "The decision is that this game is going to be played in front of fans from both clubs in Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium," CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez said. "(Madrid) is not only one of the safest cities in the world, the Santiago Bernabeu is an elite stadium that offers the highest standards of security and comfort for an encounter of this magnitude." This year was the first time that Argentina's two biggest teams had met in the final of South America's equivalent of the Champions League and as usual away supporters were banned from both legs because of recurring fan violence. × The clubs drew the first leg 2-2 at Boca's ground in Buenos Aires and were due to play the second match across town at River's Monumental stadium last Saturday. Boca players sustained injuries, however, when River fans attacked their coach as it approached the stadium and the game was first delayed until Sunday before being postponed indefinitely. A CONMEBOL tribunal on Thursday also ruled against Boca's appeal to be awarded the match because of the violence but River were fined $400,000 and ordered to play their next two matches in continental competition behind closed doors. Boca Juniors said it rejected the tribunal's decision and would appeal. The violent incidents outside the Monumental were beamed around the world, embarrassing Argentina days before this weekend's G20 summit in Buenos Aires. The task will now fall on Spanish authorities to ensure the game between two of the bitterest rivals in sport goes ahead peacefully at the 81,044-capacity Bernabeu. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Twitter that his government were ready to host the match and were already working with law enforcement authorities to ensure security for the event. Qatar, Miami, and stadiums in Brazil and Colombia were among the other possible venues discussed for the biggest game in the 58-year history of the Libertadores Cup. Spain's position as a footballing hotbed with excellent flight connections to Latin America swung the decision in Madrid's favour, however. "The world is asking for an example of chivalry, sportsmanship and sporting values," Dominguez said. "Football is not about violence." The winners of the final will have little time to celebrate before representing CONMEBOL in the Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. The tournament kicks off three days after the rescheduled second leg on December 12 with the South American champions due to play their first match on December 18.

Postponed Libertadores final to be played in Madrid

South American football administrators Conmebol said on Tuesday that the postponed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=copa">Copa Libertadores</a> final second leg between fierce local rivals <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=River+Plate">River Plate</a> and Boca Juniors would be played outside Argentina.

Following a meeting with the two Argentine clubs' presidents in Asuncion, Conmebol said the match, to take place on "December 8 or 9," would be at an as yet undecided venue.

The original second-leg clash between the two Buenos Aires clubs at the weekend was postponed after Boca players were injured in an attack on their team bus by River fans with pepper spray, stones and sticks.

Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez told reporters that "the final cannot be played in Argentina."

A Conmebol statement moments earlier said that due to the weekend "violence... that put players, officials and fans at risk... it would not be prudent to play the final in" Argentina.

The tie is delicately poised following a 2-2 draw at Boca's Bombonera home just over two weeks ago.

The second leg had to be postponed after Boca players suffered cuts from broken glass and from smoke inhalation when their bus was attacked by River fans on the way to the Monumental Stadium in the Argentine capital on Saturday.

It was originally postponed by 24 hours before Conmebol announced on Sunday that it was being suspended indefinitely ahead of Tuesday's meeting at the body's headquarters in the Paraguayan capital.

Boca's president Daniel Angelici petitioned the continent's governing body to award them the trophy, a move his River counterpart Rodolfo D'Onofrio branded "shameful."&nbsp;

Some potential final venues have already expressed an interest in hosting the derby dubbed a "superclasico", and the most important in Argentine club football history, as it pits the two most popular teams in the country in the continent's most prestigious final.

The group that runs the Atletico Mineiro stadium in Brazilian city Belo Horizonte offered on Tuesday to host the match.

That came a day after the Italian city of Genoa cited cultural links between the city and Italian immigrants to Argentina in the early 20th century as it suggested the Marassi stadium as a potential venue.

South American football administrators Conmebol said on Tuesday that the postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between fierce local rivals River Plate and Boca Juniors would be played outside Argentina.

South American football administrators Conmebol said on Tuesday that the postponed Copa Libertadores final second leg between fierce local rivals River Plate and Boca Juniors would be played outside Argentina. Following a meeting with the two Argentine clubs' presidents in Asuncion, Conmebol said the match, to take place on "December 8 or 9," would be at an as yet undecided venue. The original second-leg clash between the two Buenos Aires clubs at the weekend was postponed after Boca players were injured in an attack on their team bus by River fans with pepper spray, stones and sticks. Conmebol president Alejandro Dominguez told reporters that "the final cannot be played in Argentina." A Conmebol statement moments earlier said that due to the weekend "violence... that put players, officials and fans at risk... it would not be prudent to play the final in" Argentina. The tie is delicately poised following a 2-2 draw at Boca's Bombonera home just over two weeks ago. The second leg had to be postponed after Boca players suffered cuts from broken glass and from smoke inhalation when their bus was attacked by River fans on the way to the Monumental Stadium in the Argentine capital on Saturday. It was originally postponed by 24 hours before Conmebol announced on Sunday that it was being suspended indefinitely ahead of Tuesday's meeting at the body's headquarters in the Paraguayan capital. Boca's president Daniel Angelici petitioned the continent's governing body to award them the trophy, a move his River counterpart Rodolfo D'Onofrio branded "shameful." Some potential final venues have already expressed an interest in hosting the derby dubbed a "superclasico", and the most important in Argentine club football history, as it pits the two most popular teams in the country in the continent's most prestigious final. The group that runs the Atletico Mineiro stadium in Brazilian city Belo Horizonte offered on Tuesday to host the match. That came a day after the Italian city of Genoa cited cultural links between the city and Italian immigrants to Argentina in the early 20th century as it suggested the Marassi stadium as a potential venue.

Copa Libertadores final to be played outside Argentina

The Italian city of Genoa has offered to host the postponed Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors, stressing the role immigrants from the city had in founding the two Buenos Aires clubs.

The second leg of the final was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/riots-break-out-in-argentina-after-boca-juniors-bus-is-attacked-179326">called off twice</a> at the weekend after the bus carrying the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/libertadores-final-postponed-after-boca-bus-attacked-players-hurt-179328">Boca team was attacked</a> by rival fans outside River's Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on Saturday, injuring several players.

The kickoff was initially delayed before the game was postponed from Saturday to Sunday. On Sunday, it was postponed again, hours before kickoff, after Boca said they were not in a fit state to play.

The South American football confederation CONMEBOL is due to meet both clubs on Tuesday to discuss rescheduling and the venue. The first leg at Boca's stadium ended 2-2.

The Genoa city government confirmed in a statement on Monday that it had written to the clubs offering to host the game.

The Libertadores is South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League and it is the first time two teams from the same city had reached the final.

"Deep, in fact, are the bonds that unite the two Argentine football clubs - both founded by Genoese immigrants at the beginning of the twentieth century - with the Ligurian capital," Genoa's government said.

The city's sports director Stefano Anzalone added: "We would be very proud to host important clubs like Boca and River in our city by welcoming them in what, in some ways, is also their first home.

"It would also be a further opportunity to give international visibility in Genoa at this time of difficulty and to renew the profound sense of friendship that historically unites us with those societies."

The city is still recovering from the accident in August when a motorway bridge collapsed, killing 43 people.

Boca are generally more closely associated with the city and are nicknamed the "Xeneizes", the local dialect's word for "Genoese".

River Plate's connections with the city are less well known although some versions of their history say the club adopted red and white as their colours because they are the same as Genoa's flag.

The Italian city of Genoa has offered to host the postponed Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors, stressing the role immigrants from the city had in founding the two Buenos Aires clubs.

The Italian city of Genoa has offered to host the postponed Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors, stressing the role immigrants from the city had in founding the two Buenos Aires clubs. The second leg of the final was called off twice at the weekend after the bus carrying the Boca team was attacked by rival fans outside River's Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on Saturday, injuring several players. The kickoff was initially delayed before the game was postponed from Saturday to Sunday. On Sunday, it was postponed again, hours before kickoff, after Boca said they were not in a fit state to play. The South American football confederation CONMEBOL is due to meet both clubs on Tuesday to discuss rescheduling and the venue. The first leg at Boca's stadium ended 2-2. The Genoa city government confirmed in a statement on Monday that it had written to the clubs offering to host the game. The Libertadores is South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League and it is the first time two teams from the same city had reached the final. "Deep, in fact, are the bonds that unite the two Argentine football clubs - both founded by Genoese immigrants at the beginning of the twentieth century - with the Ligurian capital," Genoa's government said. The city's sports director Stefano Anzalone added: "We would be very proud to host important clubs like Boca and River in our city by welcoming them in what, in some ways, is also their first home. "It would also be a further opportunity to give international visibility in Genoa at this time of difficulty and to renew the profound sense of friendship that historically unites us with those societies." The city is still recovering from the accident in August when a motorway bridge collapsed, killing 43 people. Boca are generally more closely associated with the city and are nicknamed the "Xeneizes", the local dialect's word for "Genoese". River Plate's connections with the city are less well known although some versions of their history say the club adopted red and white as their colours because they are the same as Genoa's flag.

Genoa offers to host postponed Libertadores final

Rioting continued in the streets of Buenos Aires after the second leg of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/libertadores-final-postponed-after-boca-bus-attacked-players-hurt-179328">Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors</a> was delayed on Saturday (November 24).

The delay was announced after Boca players were hurt when their bus was attacked on its way into the stadium, organizers said.

Some reports said Argentine police fired tear gas at River fans who were throwing missiles at the Boca bus and the gas got into the vehicle while others reported that the damage was caused by River fans.

Boca officials told reporters some of their players were not fit to play in the match.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GxMhL2PsTdc" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Clarin said six players had vomited in the dressing-room after gas drifted into bus windows smashed by River fans outside the stadium.

Boca and River drew the first leg 2-2 on November 11.

The incident comes three years after a Copa Libertadores last-16 tie between the same teams was abandoned at halftime after Boca fans attacked the River players with pepper spray in the tunnel.

River were given a bye into the quarter-finals and Boca were kicked out the competition.

Rioting continued in the streets of Buenos Aires after the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors was delayed on Saturday (November 24).

Rioting continued in the streets of Buenos Aires after the second leg of the Copa Libertadores final between River Plate and Boca Juniors was delayed on Saturday (November 24). The delay was announced after Boca players were hurt when their bus was attacked on its way into the stadium, organizers said. Some reports said Argentine police fired tear gas at River fans who were throwing missiles at the Boca bus and the gas got into the vehicle while others reported that the damage was caused by River fans. Boca officials told reporters some of their players were not fit to play in the match. × Clarin said six players had vomited in the dressing-room after gas drifted into bus windows smashed by River fans outside the stadium. Boca and River drew the first leg 2-2 on November 11. The incident comes three years after a Copa Libertadores last-16 tie between the same teams was abandoned at halftime after Boca fans attacked the River players with pepper spray in the tunnel. River were given a bye into the quarter-finals and Boca were kicked out the competition.

Riots break out in Argentina after Boca Juniors bus is attacked

The second leg of the Copa Libertadores final was postponed on Saturday after Boca Juniors players were hurt when their bus was attacked by River Plate fans outside the stadium, ruining what was supposed to be a landmark day for Argentine football.

The all-Buenos Aires clash, the first time Argentina's two biggest clubs had met for the title, was billed as the greatest final in the competition's 58-year history but will instead be remembered for the violence that left players bleeding and almost all the windows on one side of the Boca bus shattered.

South American football's governing body (CONMEBOL) twice rescheduled the kick-off in the hope of getting the game played but with a capacity 62,000 crowd waiting for the players to emerge they eventually decided to postpone the final.

"One can't play in these conditions," CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez told reporters.

The final of the competition, South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League, was rescheduled for Sunday at 5 p.m. local time (2000 GMT).

However, later on Saturday the city government ordered River's Monumental stadium closed for exceeding capacity limits and failing to keep exits clear, casting doubt on whether the second leg will go ahead on Sunday.

Ricardo Pedace, head of the government's safety agency, told local television they were taking steps to determine whether the game could be played.

"I have asked the inspectors to act quickly, to make it possible for the game to be played," he said.

CONMEBOL did not make an official statement about the postponement. There was also no information on whether fans who had tickets for game would get access on Sunday, or whether CONMEBOL would begin proceedings to punish River for the violence.

The decision to reschedule the game was taken more than two hours after the original start time. Boca players were angry that officials had even tried to get the game underway.

"We're in no condition (to play)," Boca forward Carlos Tevez told reporters shortly before the match was postponed. "They are forcing us to play the game."

Photos showed Boca captain Pablo Perez with his eye bandaged after being taken to hospital and other players suffered cuts to the face, arms, legs and chest.

Local media reported some players were exposed to tear gas after police clashed with the River fans who were throwing stones and missiles at the Boca bus.

Argentine news website Clarin said six players had vomited in the dressing room.

"They were throwing pepper gas, stones, everything," Clarin quoted Juan Carlos Crespi, a member of the Boca delegation, as saying.

The first leg at Boca's ground on Nov. 11 ended 2-2 and the second leg was taking place at River's home in front of their own fans. Away supporters are banned from football matches in Argentina due to recurring violence in and around the grounds.

Saturday's trouble comes three years after a Libertadores last-16 tie between the same teams was abandoned at halftime after Boca fans attacked River players with pepper spray in the tunnel.

River were given a bye into the quarter-finals and Boca were kicked out the competition.

The second leg of the Copa Libertadores final was postponed on Saturday after Boca Juniors players were hurt when their bus was attacked by River Plate fans outside the stadium, ruining what was supposed to be a landmark day for Argentine football.

The second leg of the Copa Libertadores final was postponed on Saturday after Boca Juniors players were hurt when their bus was attacked by River Plate fans outside the stadium, ruining what was supposed to be a landmark day for Argentine football. The all-Buenos Aires clash, the first time Argentina's two biggest clubs had met for the title, was billed as the greatest final in the competition's 58-year history but will instead be remembered for the violence that left players bleeding and almost all the windows on one side of the Boca bus shattered. South American football's governing body (CONMEBOL) twice rescheduled the kick-off in the hope of getting the game played but with a capacity 62,000 crowd waiting for the players to emerge they eventually decided to postpone the final. "One can't play in these conditions," CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez told reporters. The final of the competition, South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League, was rescheduled for Sunday at 5 p.m. local time (2000 GMT). However, later on Saturday the city government ordered River's Monumental stadium closed for exceeding capacity limits and failing to keep exits clear, casting doubt on whether the second leg will go ahead on Sunday. Ricardo Pedace, head of the government's safety agency, told local television they were taking steps to determine whether the game could be played. "I have asked the inspectors to act quickly, to make it possible for the game to be played," he said. CONMEBOL did not make an official statement about the postponement. There was also no information on whether fans who had tickets for game would get access on Sunday, or whether CONMEBOL would begin proceedings to punish River for the violence. The decision to reschedule the game was taken more than two hours after the original start time. Boca players were angry that officials had even tried to get the game underway. "We're in no condition (to play)," Boca forward Carlos Tevez told reporters shortly before the match was postponed. "They are forcing us to play the game." Photos showed Boca captain Pablo Perez with his eye bandaged after being taken to hospital and other players suffered cuts to the face, arms, legs and chest. Local media reported some players were exposed to tear gas after police clashed with the River fans who were throwing stones and missiles at the Boca bus. Argentine news website Clarin said six players had vomited in the dressing room. "They were throwing pepper gas, stones, everything," Clarin quoted Juan Carlos Crespi, a member of the Boca delegation, as saying. The first leg at Boca's ground on Nov. 11 ended 2-2 and the second leg was taking place at River's home in front of their own fans. Away supporters are banned from football matches in Argentina due to recurring violence in and around the grounds. Saturday's trouble comes three years after a Libertadores last-16 tie between the same teams was abandoned at halftime after Boca fans attacked River players with pepper spray in the tunnel. River were given a bye into the quarter-finals and Boca were kicked out the competition.

Libertadores final postponed after Boca bus attacked, players hurt

Boca Juniors and River Plate played out a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday in the first leg of their&nbsp;Copa&nbsp;Libertadores&nbsp;final that took place a day later than scheduled due to heavy rain in Argentina.

The first&nbsp;Libertadores&nbsp;final between Argentina's two biggest clubs was an end-to-end affair worthy of the occasion. Boca went ahead after 34 minutes when Ramon Abila followed up his own blocked drive with a ferocious shot that keeper Franco Armani got a hand to but could not stop.

Their lead lasted less than two minutes as Lucas Pratto controlled a through ball before firing in an angled drive past Agustin Rossi from 12 metres (39 feet) out.

The goals sparked the game into life and although River looked the more dangerous, it was Boca who again went ahead seconds before halftime. Dario Benedetto, who had come on to replace the injured Cristian Pavon, headed home a freekick lofted hopefully into the box.

The second half started at the same pace and River drew level in the 61st minute thanks to an own goal by Carlos Izquierdoz.

The visitors punted another long free kick into the box and Izquierdoz, under pressure from Pratto, glanced the ball past his own keeper.

Benedetto had a superb chance to win the game in the final minute but his point-blank shot was well saved by Armani.

The second leg of the final, South America's equivalent of the Champions League, will take place at River's Monumental stadium on Nov. 24.

With away fans banned from derby games in Argentina because of violence, Boca, who won the last of their six titles in 2007, played the match in front of their own fans in a sold-out Bombonera stadium.

River were also hindered by the absence of their coach Marcelo Gallardo from the stadium, who was banned for disobeying a suspension during the semi-final win over holders Gremio.

The winner will represent CONMEBOL in the Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates next month.

Boca Juniors and River Plate played out a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday in the first leg of their Copa Libertadores final that took place a day later than scheduled due to heavy rain in Argentina.

Boca Juniors and River Plate played out a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday in the first leg of their Copa Libertadores final that took place a day later than scheduled due to heavy rain in Argentina. The first Libertadores final between Argentina's two biggest clubs was an end-to-end affair worthy of the occasion. Boca went ahead after 34 minutes when Ramon Abila followed up his own blocked drive with a ferocious shot that keeper Franco Armani got a hand to but could not stop. Their lead lasted less than two minutes as Lucas Pratto controlled a through ball before firing in an angled drive past Agustin Rossi from 12 metres (39 feet) out. The goals sparked the game into life and although River looked the more dangerous, it was Boca who again went ahead seconds before halftime. Dario Benedetto, who had come on to replace the injured Cristian Pavon, headed home a freekick lofted hopefully into the box. The second half started at the same pace and River drew level in the 61st minute thanks to an own goal by Carlos Izquierdoz. The visitors punted another long free kick into the box and Izquierdoz, under pressure from Pratto, glanced the ball past his own keeper. Benedetto had a superb chance to win the game in the final minute but his point-blank shot was well saved by Armani. The second leg of the final, South America's equivalent of the Champions League, will take place at River's Monumental stadium on Nov. 24. With away fans banned from derby games in Argentina because of violence, Boca, who won the last of their six titles in 2007, played the match in front of their own fans in a sold-out Bombonera stadium. River were also hindered by the absence of their coach Marcelo Gallardo from the stadium, who was banned for disobeying a suspension during the semi-final win over holders Gremio. The winner will represent CONMEBOL in the Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates next month.

Copa Libertadores: River Plate, Boca Juniors thrilling first leg ends in a draw

boca-juniors

Boca Juniors, News on Boca Juniors, stories on Boca Juniors, articles on Boca Juniors, Boca Juniors stories at Wion, Boca Juniors news, Boca Juniors latest news

boca juniors