Iconic Brazilian left-back Marcelo was overcome with emotion as Fluminense secured their maiden Copa Libertadores title by defeating Boca Juniors.
The revered Real Madrid full-back, Marcelo Vieira, couldn’t contain his tears of joy when his childhood club, Fluminense, accomplished a historic victory in the Copa Libertadores final against the Argentine powerhouse Boca Juniors, held in Rio de Janeiro.
Marcelo, who had embarked on a successful European adventure, returned to Fluminense after his illustrious stint at Real Madrid. Joining the Spanish giants as a teenager in 2007, he went on to become the most decorated player in the club’s history before departing in 2022.
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Following a brief tenure with Greek giants Olympiacos, Marcelo made a triumphant comeback to his roots in Brazil with Fluminense, where his football journey had begun. His return was celebrated, yet nobody could have foreseen the unprecedented success he would bring to the club.
On a Saturday evening, in the dying moments of the match, Marcelo lifted his second trophy with Fluminense, contributing to the team’s historic victory in the Copa Libertadores, the most prestigious prize in South American club football.
Despite starting the final against Boca Juniors, Marcelo suffered a late injury, leaving him in physical and emotional pain as he watched Fluminense battle a formidable Boca Juniors side in extra time.
Fluminense took the lead thanks to German Cano’s goal, only to be equalized by Luis Advíncula in the 72nd minute. The Maracanã crowd erupted in joy when John Kennedy scored the extra-time winner.
Kenedy’s exuberant celebration led to a second yellow card, leaving Fluminense with 10 men for the remainder of extra time. Shortly after, Boca also had a player sent off, as Frank Fabra received a straight red card for violent conduct just before halftime in extra time.
Nevertheless, Fluminense held their ground and made history by winning the South American championship for the first time in the club’s storied history, evoking tears of joy from Marcelo and his fellow teammates.