Libertadores: Peñarol in the Centenario, Which Team Played?
The Copa Libertadores, South America's most prestigious club football tournament, has a rich history filled with unforgettable moments. One such moment occurred in 1982, during the Centenario celebrations of the Uruguayan Football Association. This begs the question: Which Peñarol team took the field in the Centenario during that year's Copa Libertadores?
Peñarol's Squad in the 1982 Libertadores
The 1982 Copa Libertadores was a memorable one for Peñarol, as they triumphed over the mighty Cobreloa from Chile to lift the trophy. The squad that achieved this feat was a star-studded lineup boasting iconic names, including:
Goalkeepers: Fernando Alvez, Walter Olivera
Defenders: José Luis Zalazar, Hugo de León, Nelson Gutiérrez, Miguel Angel Bossio, Ruben Paz, Wilmar Cabrera
Midfielders: Fernando Morena, Walter Perdomo, Julio César Morales, Julio César Dely Valdés, Julio César Da Silva, Jorge Barrios, Eduardo De Souza, Nelson Briozzo
Forwards: Juan Carlos De Lima, Rubén Sosa, Alberto Bica
Manager: Roberto Fleitas
This Peñarol team was known for its strong defense and potent attacking force, led by the legendary Fernando Morena, who finished as the tournament's top scorer.
The Centenario Match
The 1982 Copa Libertadores featured a unique format, with teams playing a group stage followed by two-legged semifinals and a final. Peñarol faced Cobreloa in the final, and the first leg was played at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo on December 15th, 1982.
Peñarol, playing in front of their passionate home crowd, secured a crucial 1-0 victory. The match was a tight affair, with the only goal coming from Fernando Morena in the 62nd minute. This result gave Peñarol a crucial advantage heading into the second leg in Chile.
A Historic Victory
Peñarol, despite facing a tough challenge in the second leg, ultimately managed to hold on to their lead and secure a historic victory. This triumph marked their fifth Copa Libertadores title, solidifying their position as one of South America's most successful clubs.
The team that played in the Centenario during the 1982 Copa Libertadores final will forever be etched in the history of Peñarol and Uruguayan football. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of players and fans alike.