The 2023 Copa Libertadores kicks off with the early rounds, where clubs that face the longest routes to the group stage begin their campaigns. The title chase for the Libertadores Cup 2023 starts in the opening preparatory phase, as teams from across South America chase a spot in the main draw, with some aiming for a run through the playoffs. The early rounds consist of three elimination stages, starting with six clubs vying to advance to the group stage.
Copa Libertadores 2023: start date, participating teams and fixtures
WHEN WILL THE FIRST PRELIMINARY ROUND OF THE 2023 LIBERTADORES CUP TAKE PLACE?
Conmebol has released the calendar for 2023, confirming that the first playoff matches are scheduled for February 7 and February 16. These dates mark the opening step in a lengthy continental campaign that culminates in the crowning of a new champion later in the year.
HOW IS THE FIRST PRELIMINARY ROUND OF THE 2023 LIBERTADORES CUP STRUCTURED?
The initial round features six teams selected from leagues in Bolivia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela. A draw determines the crossovers, after which matches are played in a two-legged format. The three victors from this phase advance to the next round, continuing the march toward the group stage.
Rematch of the Copa Libertadores 2023: kickoff details, stages and participating clubs
WHICH TEAMS ARE SET TO CONTEST THE FIRST ROUND OF THE 2023 LIBERTADORES CUP?
The teams confirmed for the first preliminary stage are Zamora and Nacional of Paraguay, Sport Huancayo, Nacional Potosí, Boston River and El Nacional from Ecuador.
PHASE 1 OVERVIEW
- E1 – 7/2 – 19:00: Sport Huancayo versus Nacional (Paraguay)
- E1 – 14/02 – 21:00: Nacional (Paraguay) versus Sport Huancayo
- E2 – 8/2 – 20:00: Nacional Potosí versus El Nacional (Ecuador)
- E2 – 15/02 – 19:00: El Nacional (Ecuador) versus Nacional Potosí
- E3 – 9/2 – 21:00: Boston River versus Zamora
- E3 – 16/2 – 20:00: Zamora versus Boston River
All kickoff times are listed in the local time zone of the host country.
PHASE 2 SUMMARY
- C1: Carabobo versus Atlético Mineiro
- C2: E1: Sport Huancayo versus Cristal
- C3: Mister Maldonado versus Fort
- C4: E2: Independiente Medellín
- C5: Magallanes versus Always Ready
- C6: Unión Curicó versus Cerro Porteño
- C7: E3: Hurricane versus Universidad Católica
- C8: Universidad Católica from Ecuador versus Millonarios