Boca Juniors vs Grêmio (2007 Copa Libertadores Final)
Six stars in the sky: Boca's gritty triumph over Grêmio secures their sixth Libertadores crown.
The 2007 Copa Libertadores Final etched itself into Boca Juniors' history not merely as a trophy win, but as the moment they claimed their sixth star in South America's premier club competition. This two-legged final pitted Argentine giants against Brazil's Grêmio, culminating in a dramatic showdown that tested the resolve of both squads before Boca secured victory on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate deadlock. This match is revered not just for the silverware it delivered to La Bombonera, but for the resilience displayed by a squad navigating internal turmoil and external pressure. It cemented the legacy of coach Alfio Basile and key figures like Juan Román Riquelme, reinforcing Boca's status as a continental powerhouse during the mid-2000s.
Quick Facts
- Competition
- Copa Libertadores
- Season
- 2007
- Result (aggregate)
- 2-2 (Boca wins on away goals)
- Deciding match venue
- Estádio Olímpico Monumental, Porto Alegre
- Key figure
- Juan Román Riquelme (Playmaker)
Lore & Background
By 2007, Boca Juniors was a club steeped in tradition but facing a period of transition. The team entered the final with a blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy, orchestrated by the artistic genius of Juan Román Riquelme. The path to the final was arduous, requiring them to dismantle traditional rivals like River Plate in the semi-finals, setting the stage for a clash against the Brazilian side Grêmio, who had been formidable hosts throughout their campaign.
The first leg at La Bombonera ended in a tense 2-1 victory for Boca, with goals from Martín Palermo and Carlos Tevez. However, the second leg in Porto Alegre became a fortress for Grêmio. The Brazilian team dominated possession and scored twice to force extra time, creating an atmosphere of dread among the traveling Xeneize faithful. In a tournament where Argentine teams had struggled against Brazilian hosts in recent years, Boca broke through with a performance that prioritized defensive solidity over flair when necessary.
The trophy lifted by captain Roberto Abbondanzieri became a symbol of survival and excellence, adding a sixth star to the club's crest and silencing critics who questioned the squad's depth.
Reader's Guide
The 2007 Copa Libertadores Final remains a pivotal reference point for understanding Boca Juniors' tactical evolution under Basile. Fans revisiting this match often highlight the defensive organization that neutralized Grêmio's attack in Brazil. It is available on official CONMEBOL archives and various football history collections.
Did You Know?
- This was Boca Juniors' sixth Copa Libertadores title, tying them with Independiente as the most successful club in the competition's history at that time.
- The victory came during a period of significant financial and administrative instability for the club, making the on-field success even more precious to the fans.
- Carlos Tevez scored in both legs of the final, playing a pivotal role before moving to Manchester United shortly after the tournament.
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