Emerson’s brace sparked a famous Corinthians victory over six times Copa Libertadores champions Boca Juniors. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw. It was the first Libertadores title for Corinthians in the 52 year history of the competition which has favoured Argentinian clubs (22 titles) over the Brazilians (16 titles) by quite some distance.
Corinthians were helped by a Boca Juniors team that committed more errors and looked dispirited coming into the final after ending their 2012 season with only one win in their last eight matches. Emerson also invited controversy with this Tyson like moment.
It was also the last match for legend Juan Roman Riquelme who announced he would be leaving Boca Juniors in an emotional speech.
“This afternoon, I spoke with the president and informed him that I would not continue,” Riquelme told reporters. “I am very grateful to the club and the team, I know I am, but I have nothing left to give the club, I’m empty.”