Alone in a Final

South American final

It was Boca-Gremio but also Argentina-Brazil in a way. Gremio did a good job in the 1st half. Boca couldn´t create any dangerous situations and the Brazilians controlled the ball. But Boca had their "piece of luck": after a Riquelme free-kick, Palermo gave it to Palacio, who scored. Palermo was a 0,5 m off-side; linesman Walter Rial conceded the goal. Huge mistake, but ... not Larrionda´s fault.

Rial and Acosta... weak !

Larrionda gave another master class, himself. But he wasn´t helped very much. Not only by Rial; also Edgardo Acosta had a bad night. They just confused the players and the referee when flagging.

Red card

When Boca, in the 2nd half, got the upper hand and scored their 2nd, Gremio got nervous. Sandro dealt a Karate kick to young Banega, and was punished with a direct red by Larrionda. Boca players saw 4 yellows, and Gremio 2 yellows and that red. It was a heavy match, but luckily, no tricks.

That´s all?

This final may seem to be over and done with. What with Boca being 3 goals ahead (though Boca's play didn´t merit that difference)? But they still have to play the return match in Porto Alegre. It will be really difficult for Gremio. But, remembering that 2005 European Final, that match will have to be played first. Next week, the champion !