Racing Club of Argentina, known as 'La Academia', secured their first Copa Sudamericana title by defeating Brazil's Cruzeiro 3-1 in the final held at Estadio Nueva Olla in Asunción, Paraguay. Racing took an early lead, scoring twice within the first 20 minutes through Gastón Martirena and Adrián 'Maravilla' Martínez. Roger Martínez added a third goal, sealing the victory and marking Racing's first international trophy in 36 years and the fourth in the club's history. Kaio Jorge scored for Cruzeiro. The triumph is significant for coach Gustavo Costas, who has now won international titles with Racing both as a player and as a manager.
