Liverpool target Andre Trindade starred as Fluminense secured their first Copa Libertadores triumph after defeating Boca Juniors.
The Brazilian side defeated their Argentine counterparts 2-1 after an incredible final at Rio de Janeiro’s Maracana Stadium that spanned 120 minutes. Andre, who lasted the full 120 minutes, saw his side take the lead in the 36th minute when German Cano fired Keno’s low-driven cross into the back of the net. However, Boca Juniors drew level in the final 20 minutes of normal time when Cristian Medina arrowed a curling effort into the far corner.
The 22-year-old, who was the subject of transfer talks between Fluminense and Liverpool back in August, delivered a scintillating performance on the biggest night of his fledgling career as he completed the most dribbles of any player on the field (2) and posted an impressive 95% pass completion rate on a historic night for Fernando Diniz’s side. His remarkable pass rate saw him accomplish the most accurate passes of any player to play 45 minutes or more.
Extra time saw Fluminense dramatically take the lead as substitute John Kennedy thumped his side ahead in the 99th minute. However, the forward was quickly shown a second yellow card for celebrating with the vibrant Fluminense fans housed in the Maracana. Boca’s numerical advantage didn’t last long, though, as left-back Frank Fabra appeared to slap Nino, in what was a fiery end to the first half of extra time.
Victory is likely to see Andre, who has also attracted the attention of Arsenal, sign off his 10-year career at Fluminense in remarkable circumstances after helping the Brazilians to a maiden South American triumph.
Liverpool had seemingly hoped to sign the Brazilian in August when they initiated talks with Fluminense, though such efforts were rebuffed with the Brazilians keen to ensure their prospects of a first Copa Libertadores title remained strong. Speaking before Saturday’s final, Andre spoke to the Guardian of such Premier League interest and insisted a decision on his future will be made at the end of the Brazilian season on December 6.
“I follow the Premier League a lot,” said the midfielder. “It’s a very competitive league that demands a lot from players. But today my dream is to live day by day here in Fluminense. I don’t know what will happen in the future; I have a long contract at Fluminense and I really like being here.
“It’s been 10 years already so it’s where I feel at home. I’m still young, only 22 years old, so there’s no need for me to think too far ahead. I just need to keep doing my best, try to win this trophy and then see what happens at the end of the season.
