Keys to the Libertadores final: how Miguel Ángel Ramírez sees Atlético Mineiro-Botafogo

The 2024 Copa Libertadores is another all Brazilian affair as Atletico Mineiro aim for their second continental triumph with Rio based Botafogo in the final for the first time ever.

AS caught up with the current Al Wakrah (Qatar) coach Miguel Ángel Ramirez, with the Canary Islander a former Copa Sudamericana winner in his time with Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle in 2019.

The 40-year-old offered his insight and keys to where Saturday’s final can be won and lost.

The teams. As is often the case in Brazil, both teams have undergone coaching changes this year. Botafogo are performing well under Artur Jorge and the Rio side are one of the surprise packages in this year’s Libertadores and are now within touching distance of their first ever Libertadores win. Mineiro’s performance in the league has been irregular this season, however, under Gabi Milito’s tactical influence in the final, the Argentine’s role could be crucial in terms of preparation and analysis.

A special final. Saturday’s final pits two big Brazilian clubs facing each other in Argentina with the game set to be played in an iconic stadium. There will be a spectacular atmosphere, with two passionate fan bases and. goes to show the stranglehold Brazilian soccer holds on the continent at the moment.

Two teams from the same country. Obviously they know each other better but Botafogo will be boosted by their midweek 1-3 win at Palmeiras that should see the Rio team win the Brasileirão. In the head to head games this season, Botafogo have the upper hand with a 3-0 home win with both sides playing out a highly charged 0-0 in the league just last week.

Keys to achieving maximum performance in a final. Analysis and preparation are essential, as is emotional balance and this can be difficult to manage this in your squad ahead of a game of this magnitude. Both teams will start in a cagey manner as they sound out each other with neither team anxious to give up early clear cut chances for their rival.

Clash of styles. If there’s one thing that Botafogo is known for, it’s that they concede few goals. They’re very solid in defence but at the same time, their style of play allows them to create chances. I’m looking forward to seeing how a team like At. Mineiro, which is a brave team operate against the Rio team. I hope Milito can tweak his style to avoid being predictable but I anticipate Botafogo offering a more solid showing and take advantage of the chances they create.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.