Mexico’s debut in the Copa Libertadores dates to 1998, thanks to an initiative by Venezuela that chose to commercialize its quotas and offer them in exchange for economic resources. The Mexican Football Federation accepted the proposal and the conditions established by Conmebol.
Since then, Mexican clubs have left a significant mark on the Copa Libertadores, having reached the final three times: Cruz Azul in 2001 losing a tight match 1-0 vs. Boca Juniors; Chivas in 2010 losing 3- 2 vs Internacional; and, Tigers in 2015, the last one that could represent Mexico in a Copa Libertadores final that they unfortunately lost against River Plate.
The possibility of Mexico returning to the Copa Libertadores is presented as a promising chapter in the history of Mexican football, and the support of Conmebol could pave the way for an exciting return of the Aztec teams to the South American international scene.
The absence of Mexican teams in the Copa Libertadores has been seen since 2017 and this is due to modifications in the tournament format adopted by Conmebol. These modifications meant that the Mexican teams were required to play 14 matches in a period of two months, a condition that was impracticable because the Mexican teams would have a significant disadvantage against the other South American teams participating in the tournament.
According to journalist Rubén Rodríguez, “Conmebol already said yes. It already invited Mexico. The first invitation was made to Mexico to help negotiate with Concacaf, so that the confederation says yes so that the country participates in the Copa Libertadores.”
This news leaves all soccer lovers with the hope of seeing the Mexican teams again playing in the most important tournament on the continent at the club level. In addition, it leaves us with the intrigue of whether MLS teams will also be able to participate in the tournament. We must be honest, we would all like to see Messi playing in the Libertadores. Let’s hope it happens.
