The excitement is building for the 2025 Copa Libertadores, as the Confederação Sul-Americana de Futebol (Conmebol) has just unveiled the draw for the tournament's preliminary rounds. This highly anticipated competition will see prominent South American clubs vie for glory, with the draw taking place on February 19, 2025.
This year's preliminary phase will witness notable clashes, including three matchups from the first phase where no Brazilian teams will participate. The three openings include El Nacional from Ecuador facing off against yet-to-be-determined representatives from Bolivia. Meanwhile, Nacional from Paraguay will compete against Alianza Lima from Peru, and Monagas from Venezuela will go up against Defensor Sporting from Uruguay.
Brazilians Corinthians and Bahia are set to make their mark during the second phase, which features only two foreign encounters. Corinthians will encounter Universidad Central from Venezuela, with the home leg of their matchup scheduled for the Neo Química Arena on February 26. If they advance, they will then face either Barcelona de Guayaquil from Ecuador or one of the winners from the first stage.
On the other hand, Bahia will need to brace itself for the imposing conditions of La Paz, Bolivia, as they face The Strongest. The expected altitude could prove to be challenging for the Tricolor de Aço, making their success uncertain. If Bahia manages to progress, their next opponent would be the victor from the clash between Boston River of Uruguay and Ñublense of Chile.
The complete schedule for the preliminary rounds has been confirmed, with matches planned between February 5 and March 12.
The Copa Libertadores kick-off is defined for March 19, leading up to the grand final slated for November 29, likely at the iconic Estádio Mané Garrincha in Brasília, where the stakes will be incredibly high for the teams involved.
With roughly 45 teams already confirmed, the competition is highly regarded not only for the prestigious title up for grabs but also for the pathways it opens to the teams participating. Brazilian clubs have shown strength, with eight representatives, six of which will head directly to the group stages.
ratifying their longstanding influence and capability to compete at the highest level. Only two slots remain as the season wraps up in Bolivia and Colombia. The upcoming match for teams like Atlético Nacional and Tolima will seal their fate, impacting final placements.
This year’s preliminary rounds present exciting prospects as teams vie for limited spots, intensifying competition as they seek to establish their presence early on. With fans across South America eagerly anticipating thrilling matches, the Copa Libertadores promises to deliver high stakes and unforgettable moments throughout its course.
Looking forward to witnessing incredible performances and perhaps even underdog stories, this year's edition will surely be one for the books!
