Brazil’s Palmeiras is set to meet Argentina’s Estudiantes in a decisive Copa Libertadores final at Estadio Centenario on November 28, with the victor moving on to challenge Masandawana.

Estudiantes, which includes former Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo and Uruguayan goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, narrowly defeated Flamengo 3-2 on penalties after a pair of goalless draws in the semi-finals.

On the other hand, Palmeiras, featuring notable players like Jhon Arias and Andreas Pereira, prevailed 5-3 on penalties after their two-legged encounter with Fluminense ended in a 2-2 aggregate tie (winning the first leg 2-1 before losing the second 1-0).

Sundowns secured their spot in the intercontinental semi-finals by overcoming Saudi Arabia’s Asian champions Al Ahli SC with a 2-1 victory in Pretoria back in September.

Awaiting in the final are the French powerhouses Paris Saint-Germain, who have reigned supreme in European football with consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. PSG will meet the winner of the Sundowns against Palmeiras/Estudiantes semi-final later this year.

The Parisians claimed the last edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup by triumphing over Flamengo of Brazil 2-1 on penalties last December, following Real Madrid’s victory against Mexico’s Pachuca in the inaugural 2024 tournament.

Whoever progresses to face PSG will be up against one of the most formidable teams in global football.

Prize Money Breakdown (USD)

Key Context & Highlights

• European Champions Privilege: The UEFA Champions League winner is automatically qualified for the Final, ensuring a minimum reward of $4 million (for runners-up) and up to $5 million (for champions).
• Comparison to FIFA Club World Cup: Compared to the annual Intercontinental Cup, the payouts are relatively modest in relation to the quadrennial 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, where winners can earn between $85 million to $100 million in prize money and participation fees.