This Saturday, Atlético Mineiro and Lanús will clash in the final of the 2025 Copa Sudamericana, a match steeped in history and intensity, set to take place at the iconic Defensores del Chaco stadium in Asunción, Paraguay, at 5:00 PM (Brasília time).
The rivalry between these two teams brings back significant memories in South American football. Their first encounter occurred in the 1997 CONMEBOL Cup final, where Atlético triumphed with an aggregate score of 5-2, winning 4-1 in Argentina and securing a 1-1 draw back in Brazil. Fast forward to 2014, Atlético faced Lanús again in the Recopa Sudamericana, emerging victorious after a nail-biting match that concluded 4-3 in extra time, following a 2-3 loss in regular time.
With a historical record favoring Atlético, who has won three out of their four encounters and drawn one, this final promises to be charged with anticipation and the possibility of redemption for Lanús.
The match officials have been appointed by Conmebol, with Chilean Piero Maza serving as the main referee, supported by assistant referees Miguel Rocha and Alejandro Molina, while Colombian Carlos Betancur will be the fourth official. The VAR team will consist of Juan Lara from Chile, along with assistants Alan Sandoval, David Rodríguez, and Leonard Mosquera.
Fans can catch the live broadcast on SBT (plus +SBT), beginning at 3:45 PM, featuring commentary by Tiago Leifert, analysis from Mauro Beting, and insights from referee expert Nadine Basttos. Additionally, cable viewers can watch the match on ESPN.
This final holds particular significance for Atlético, marking their first appearance in a Sudamericana final, with the opportunity to secure their inaugural title in this competition. For Lanús, the match is a chance to reinforce their standing on the continental stage and add another trophy to their cabinet.
The expected lineup for Atlético includes Everson, Tressoldi, Vitor Hugo, and Jr. Alonso; Rony (or Scarpa), Alan Franco (or Fausto Vera), Alexsander, Bernard, and Guilherme Arana; with Dudu and Hulk leading the attack.
As the stage is set for what promises to be an exhilarating showdown, both teams enter with hopes of making history, captivating fans and adding another thrilling chapter to their storied rivalry.