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 final
• Botafogo down to 10 men for first-minute foul
• Gregore sent off against Atletico Mineiro

• Table of Contents

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  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.

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• THE 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.

• AFP
  

  DID 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.

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• 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.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News