Alejandro Domínguez, Conmebol’s President, announced a venue change for the 2023 Copa Sudamericana final.
The match will now happen in Punta del Este, Uruguay, at Domingo Burgueño Miguel Stadium on October 28.
Initially, Montevideo’s Centenario Stadium was the chosen location. But Rio de Janeiro’s Maracaná Stadium stays as the Copa Libertadores final spot.
The Copa Sudamericana is at the semi-final stage now. First-leg games are set for September 26 and 27. The second-leg matches will follow one week later.
Corinthians and Fortaleza from Brazil are among the semi-finalists. They will compete against each other.
Liga de Quito from Ecuador will also play Defensa y Justicia from Argentina. Both are previous champions.
The previous Copa Sudamericana final took place in Argentina. The game happened at Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium.
Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle won, beating Brazil’s San Pablo 2:0.
Background
The Copa Sudamericana started in 2002 as a secondary tournament to Copa Libertadores. It offers a way for clubs to gain international experience.
The trophy carries significant prestige and opens doors for future sponsorships.
Corinthians, a Brazilian team, has won the tournament once in 2019. Fortaleza, also from Brazil, is yet to win the title. They aim to make history in the 2023 edition.
Liga de Quito from Ecuador won the tournament in 2009. Defensa y Justicia, from Argentina, clinched the title in 2020.
These past winners add excitement to this year’s semi-finals.
Uruguay last hosted a Copa Sudamericana final in 2011. That match saw Universidad de Chile defeat Liga de Quito.
Punta del Este is known for its luxurious beaches and hotels. The location shift to this tourist city can boost its profile.
It’s a chance to showcase Uruguay as a football destination.
Rio’s Maracaná Stadium remains a historic venue. It has hosted numerous finals including the World Cup.
Its status contrasts with the newer choice for Copa Sudamericana.