The 2023 edition of the continental tournament shapes up as a clash between a club yet to lift international silverware and a side that last celebrated a title more than a decade ago.
The Copa Sudamericana represents, as the slogan proclaims, the other half of the glory for South American football. It stands beside the Libertadores as the premier competition for CONMEBOL clubs, and its prestige is evident in the way many teams chase it with real intensity.
Even though the format has evolved over the years, the level of play has grown, and lifting the trophy has become a clear priority for many squads. Across the Southern Cone, several storied clubs proudly display the cup as part of their history.
In the 2023 edition, the final will feature Fortaleza, a team without international titles, facing Liga de Quito, a former champion that last tasted glory in 2009.
Below is a chronicle of champions by year, tracing the lineage of the tournament and its enduring appeal.
2022 | INDEPENDIENTE DEL VALLE
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2021 | ATLETICO PARANAENSE
Conmebol
2020 | DEFENSE AND JUSTICE
Swimming pool
2019 | INDEPENDIENTE DEL VALLE
2018 | ATLETICO PARANAENSE
Atletico Paranaense
2017 | INDEPENDIENTE
CARL DE SOUZA/AFP/Getty Images
2016 | CHAPECOENSE
2015 | INDEPENDIENTE SANTA FE
2014 | RIVER PLATE
2013 | LANUS
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2012 | SAO PAULO
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2011 | UNIVERSIDAD DE CHILE
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2010 | INDEPENDIENTE
2009 | LIGA DE QUITO
2008 | INTERNACIONAL
2007 | ARSENAL
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2006 | PACHUCA
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2005 | BOCA JUNIORS
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2004 | BOCA JUNIORS
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2003 | SCIENTIST
2002 | SAN LORENZO
Source: Goal