Drama erupted inside the opening 30 seconds of the Copa Libertadores final after Botafogo's Gregore was sent off for a horror challenge.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Chaotic start to Copa Libertadores finalBotafogo down to 10 men for first-minute foulGregore sent off against Atletico MineiroFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
With approximately 30 seconds on the clock of the 2024 Copa Libertadores final between Atletico Mineiro and Botafogo, Gregore's high boot caught the head of Fausto Vera – drawing blood from the dazed player. The referee then sent off Gregore in the second minute in a whirlwind start to the game.
AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite being a man down for the vast majority of the contest, Botafogo won their first-ever Copa Libertadores with a remarkable 3-1 win at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. First-half goals from Luiz Henrique and an Alex Telles penalty put Botafogo two up before Eduardo Vargas pulled a goal back just after the break for Atletico. Despite being dominated for much of the contest, Junior Santos scored in the 97th minute to cap off a stunning triumph.
AFPDID YOU KNOW?
Atletico had 22 shots on goal to Botafogo's eight and had a whopping 80 per cent possession but the 2013 winners could not break down their stubborn opponents as a second title eluded them.
WHAT NEXT?
Both Botafogo and Atletico still have plenty to play for after this match as the former are top of the Brazilian Serie A heading into the final stretch of the campaign. And the latter can still qualify for next season's Copa Libertadores.