Last update 18 November, 2024 by Alberto Llopis
The Copa Libertadores de America It is the most prestigious club tournament in South America, a competition where glory transcends generations and teams forge their place in world football history. Since its first edition in 1960, Clubs from various countries have left an indelible mark on the tournament, standing out for its success and consistency over the years. Next, we review the most successful teams in the history of the Copa Libertadores.
Who are the best teams in the history of the Copa Libertadores?
1. Independent (Argentina): The King of Cups
Con 7 titles under his belt, he Club Atletico Independiente He is the top winner of the Copa Libertadores. Its hegemony was consolidated over the years 60 y 70, a time in which “Red Devils” They marked a before and after in the history of the tournament.
- Titles obtained: 1964, 1965, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1984.
- Key point: It is the only team that has won four consecutive titles (1972-1975).
- Playing style: iron defense, lethal counterblows and figures like Ricardo Bochini, the eternal idol of the club.
2. Boca Juniors (Argentina): Synonym of cup passion
He Club Atletico Boca Juniors addition 6 Copa Libertadores, becoming one of the most feared clubs on the continent. The “candy box” has witnessed epic nights, where the team displayed its brave and effective football. It is certainly one of the best teams in the history of the Copa Libertadores.
- Titles obtained: 1977, 1978, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007.
- Featured figure: Carlos Bianchi, the club's most successful coach, con 3 titles.
- Peak moment: The end of 2000 against Palmeiras, in which they won an exciting penalty shootout.
3. Penarol (Uruguay): The pioneer of glory
He Club Atlético Peñarol was the first champion of the Copa Libertadores in 1960. Its dominance in the first decades places it among the most successful clubs, con 5 titles.
- Titles obtained: 1960, 1961, 1966, 1982, 1987.
- Signature style: Physical game and winning mentality.
- Historical rivalries: Their duels against Nacional, within the framework of “Uruguayan Classic”, They are legendary.
4. River Plate (Argentina): Consolidation of success
Con 4 titles, he Club Atlético River Plate He has proven to be one of the giants of South American football. His resurgence in the last decade has been key to expanding his legacy in the Libertadores.
- Titles obtained: 1986, 1996, 2015, 2018.
- Epic ending: The end of 2018 against Boca Juniors, disputed in Madrid, It is one of the most remembered in the history of the tournament.
- Outstanding technician: Marcelo Gallardo, architect of recent successes.
5. Students of La Plata (Argentina): The Zubeldía dynasty
He Club Estudiantes de La Plata de Zubeldía conquered 3 titles consecutive Copa Libertadores matches 1968 y 1970, cementing their status as one of the most respected teams in the competition. He also won the Intercontinental Cup 1968. The Zubeldía complex is among the best teams in the history of the Copa Libertadores.
- Titles obtained: 1968, 1969, 1970, 2009.
- Unique style: Tactical and intelligent football under the direction of Osvaldo Zubeldia.
- Return to glory: In 2009, with Juan Sebastián Verón leading the team.
🗓🇦🇹 Osvaldo Zubeldía would have his birthday today, revolutionary of world football and forger of a legacy that marked our history.
✍️ “The glory is not reached by a bed of roses”. pic.twitter.com/ls39LE0rTn
— Students of La Plata (@EdelpOficial) June 24, 2023
6. National (Uruguay): tricolor pride
He National Football Club has won 3 Copa Libertadores and has remained a constant contender in the tournament.
- Titles obtained: 1971, 1980, 1988.
- Key figure: Hugo De Leon, undisputed leader in the years 80.
- Rivalry: Its historic competition with Peñarol has marked Uruguayan football.
Other notable teams in the Copa Libertadores
Sao Paulo (Brazil): Domain in the 90
- Titles: 1992, 1993, 2005.
- Style: Technical and offensive game, led by figures such as Raí and Rogério Ceni.
Santos (Brazil): The magic of Pelé and Neymar
- Titles: 1962, 1963, 2011.
- Key moment: The two consecutive titles in the years 60 with Pelé as the main figure.
It is never a bad day to remember the Copa Libertadores 2011 of @neymarjr. Why, Yeah, before going to Europe and becoming a period player, The then São Paulo winger was champion of America at the club level.
Santos had not won the Cup since 1963 (It was Pele's). And when… pic.twitter.com/2R5WUZNhGW
— Undefeated (@InvictosSomos) May 1, 2023
Flemish (Brazil): Passion and recent glory
- Titles: 1981, 2019, 2022.
- Epic ending: His triumph in 2019, with two agonizing goals from Gabriel Barbosa against River Plate.
The greatness of the Copa Libertadores
The history of the Copa Libertadores is full of memorable moments and teams that have marked eras. From the magical nights at the Bombonera to the feats at the Centenario or the Maracaná, This tournament is a symbol of soccer passion and excellence in South America..
The aforementioned teams have not only accumulated titles, but they have also left an indelible mark on world football, transcending generations and keeping alive the competitive spirit of the continent.