Copa Libertadores: Racing Club Superiority Over Brazilian Teams Endures

Since arriving at Fortaleza, Vojvoda has broken many taboos. However, in their Copa Libertadores debut, the team was completely dominated by Racing, who won 3-0. This defeat was particularly painful because Fortaleza had never lost to an Argentine team at home.

The fans, who have always supported the team, ended the game with boos and demands, longing to see the team that has brought them so much joy. Vojvoda fielded Fortaleza in a 3-5-2 formation, which had worked well in the Brasileirao first game but did not have the same success against Racing.

Learn more: Copa Libertadores 2025: Group Stage Draw and Key Matchups

Fortaleza's defense failed to clear the danger on several occasions, allowing Racing to open the scoring with a goal from Salas. The team struggled to create plays and almost conceded a second goal at the end of the first half. Vojvoda made several changes at halftime, but Racing continued to dominate, scoring two more goals.

The fans became even more frustrated when Vojvoda substituted Marinho for Deyverson, a decision that was met with boos. Racing's third goal, scored by Sosa, led many fans to leave Arena Castelão before the end of the game.

In the match against the strongest opponent in the group, Fortaleza failed to threaten the rival and started the Libertadores on the wrong foot. Although there is still time for recovery, the pressure on the team has increased significantly.

Other Copa Libertadores Tuesday games

Group A

• Carabobo F.C. 0-2 Estudiantes de La Plata: Estudiantes began their Libertadores campaign with a dominant away victory in Venezuela. Santiago Núñez scored the opening goal, and Santiago Ascacíbar secured the win with a penalty, propelling Estudiantes to the top of Group A.

Group D

• Alianza Lima 0-1 Libertad: In Lima, Libertad secured a victory over Alianza Lima. Gustavo Aguilar's solitary goal ensured Libertad claimed all three points, providing them with an early advantage in Group D.

Group E

• Atlético Bucaramanga 3-3 Colo-Colo: The spectators in Bucaramanga witnessed an exhilarating six-goal match. Both teams demonstrated their attacking prowess, culminating in a high-scoring draw that resulted in them sharing points in Group E.

Group G

• Cerro Porteño 4-2 Bolívar: In Asunción, Cerro Porteño secured a decisive victory in a high-scoring match against Bolívar. The home team's offensive prowess guaranteed they earned maximum points, establishing a positive outlook for their group stage campaign.

Group H

• Barcelona SC 1-0 Independiente del Valle: Barcelona Sporting Club secured a narrow victory over Independiente del Valle. This win grants Barcelona SC a crucial early lead in Group H.

Group 5 Standings