Recopa Sudamericana

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Lore & Background

In a rematch of the Copa Libertadores final of 2004, Boca Juniors avenged that defeat as they beat Once Caldas 4–3 on aggregate in 2005. A year later, Boca Juniors faced São Paulo, both two-time winners of the competition, in order to determine who would become the first. The Xeneizes won 4–1 on points and successfully defended the title, becoming the first side since Telê Santana's São Paulo to win consecutive Recopas.

In Their Own Story

The 2005 Recopa Sudamericana final was not just another match; it was a statement of intent. Boca Juniors faced São Paulo, both two-time winners of the competition, in a clash that would determine who became the first tricampeón. The Xeneizes rose to the occasion, winning 4–1 on aggregate. This victory echoed back to their 2004 Copa Libertadores run where they had avenged a final defeat against Once Caldas. By defeating São Paulo, Boca proved they could defend their crown against the best of Brazil's golden generation. The momentum carried into 2006, when they faced Internacional. This was a critical test as the Brazilian side sought to break the Argentine stranglehold on the continent. Boca emerged victorious again, securing the title and becoming the first team since Telê Santana's São Paulo to win consecutive Recopas. These moments were not merely about points or goals; they were about maintaining the club's status as a continental powerhouse when the rest of South America was trying to catch up.

Reader's Guide

Unlike most other competitions around the world, the Recopa Sudamericana do not use extra time or away goals. From 1988 to 1995, teams would be awarded 2 points for a win, 1 point for a draw and 0 points for a loss. From 1995 onwards, the 'three points for a win' standard was adopted. If both teams are level on points after two legs, goal difference comes into play. Penalty kicks are used to determine a winner if the match is tied on goal difference.

Did You Know?

• Boca Juniors won their fourth Recopa title in 2008.
• São Paulo was the first team to retain the title, winning in 1993 and 1994.
• LDU Quito successfully defended the title in 2010, becoming the third team to do so.
• The most recent champion as of the source is Lanús, having beaten Flamengo in the 2026 edition.