Libertadores Cup 2023: How tied legs are resolved
The CONMEBOL organized continental competition has a clear rule for deciding the score when teams are level after 180 minutes of play. After three preliminary knockout rounds and 92 group stage matches, the Libertadores Cup 2023 moves into the round of 16, where the 16 strongest teams push onward in their quest to crown the new Libertadores champion. In these knockout phases, the most dramatic moments often come when teams avoid taking unnecessary risks for fear of losing a draw. Many coaches opt for caution across these series, which can lead to decisive stalemates at the end of regulation and extra time.
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To keep fans informed, GOAL provides a clear explanation of how the knockout rounds are decided if regular time ends in a draw. This overview helps followers understand the path to a decisive result in each round.
How are the matches of the final stages of the 2023 Libertadores Cup decided in the event of a tie? The key point is that since the 2022 edition, the away goals rule has been eliminated by both FIFA and CONMEBOL. This change prevents teams from counting on an away goal advantage to tilt aggregate results in their favor. As a result, teams may favor more aggressive play or adapt their tactics based on the specific tie scenario rather than relying on away goals.
Under the regulations for the Libertadores Cup 2023, the approach remains consistent from the quarterfinals through the semifinals. If a tie persists after both legs, the winner is decided through a penalty shootout, conducted in accordance with IFAB and FIFA rules. This process continues until a victor emerges, following the established competition handbook guidelines (Section 2.4.3).
For the grand final, the tiebreakers include a 30-minute overtime period, divided into two blocks of 15 minutes each. If the score remains level after overtime, the champion is crowned by a penalty shootout featuring eleven players per side. This ensures a clear and fair resolution after a full night of high-stakes football.
In summary, the structure used to resolve ties in the Libertadores Cup 2023 emphasizes procedural clarity and a shift away from relying on aggregate away goals. The competition favors decisive on-field play, with penalties and overtime providing a definitive outcome when scores are level after regulation and extra time. The approach aligns with the broader trend in international football toward more direct methods of determining a winner in knockout rounds.
Citations: GOAL