New format for Copa Libertadores final

Rio de Janeiro Feb 24 (IANS) The Copa Libertadores -- South America s premier club competition -- will feature a single final at a neutral venue from 2019 the region s football governing body CONMEBOL has said.

The decision to scrap the final s traditional two-legged home and away format brings the Copa Libertadores in line with other major club competitions such as the UEFA Champions League reports Xinhua news agency.

"More than a game this will be a great sporting cultural and tourist event that will bring great benefits to South American football its clubs and its fans " CONMEBOL said in a statement on Friday.

"It will offer a world-class sporting spectacle and a better experience at h ome and in the stadium."

Instead of being played midweek the final will be moved to a primetime Saturday slot to maximize exposure and earnings potential.

The Copa Libertadores features the strongest teams from CONMEBOL s 10 member nations.

The winners qualify for the Club World Cup contested annually by the champions of FIFA s six regional confederations plus the tournament hosts.

--IANS
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