1989 Supercopa Libertadores

Lore & Background

The competition was dominated by Argentine teams, with three of the four semi-finalists coming from Argentina: Boca Juniors, Independiente, and Argentinos Juniors. The final between Boca Juniors and Independiente marked the first time in South American club history that both finalists in any competition had come from the same country. As the new reigning Copa Libertadores champions, Colombian side Atlético Nacional were admitted into the competition, increasing the number of competitors to 14.

In Their Own Story

The air inside La Bombonera on that fateful night was thick with humidity and anticipation. The floodlights hummed against the dark Buenos Aires sky as thousands of Xeneizes swayed in unison, their chants drowning out the nervous energy of the visiting Olimpia players. Every pass, every tackle felt heavier than usual under the weight of history being made. When the final whistle blew, confirming Boca's victory, the stadium didn't just erupt; it seemed to lift off its foundations. Confetti rained down on a team that had proven, once again, that they were kings of South America.

Reader's Guide

First round matches were played from 3 October to 10 October. Teams from the same nation could not be drawn against one another. Racing Club, as the title holders, entered the competition at the quarterfinal stage. Boca Juniors also advanced to that same stage after a draw of lots. Boca Juniors received a bye to the quarter-finals. Quarter-finals were played from 18 October to 1 November. Semi-finals were played from 8 November to 16 November.

Did You Know?

• The final was the first time in South American club history that both finalists came from the same country.
• Three of the four semi-finalists were from Argentina.
• Atlético Nacional entered as the reigning Copa Libertadores champions.