First things first, this ranking of the Copa Libertadores best players takes into account the group stage but what is most relevant is the performance on the Round of 16 1st Leg. I will continue to update this ranking throughout the rest of the Libertadores
1- Franco Armani, Goalkeeper, River Plate
Armani’s worth to River Plate is incalculable. Unlike with the National Team, Franco is nearly impossible to beat. Armani has conceded just 3 goals in 7 matches and has just provided an incredible performance against Racing in the Round of 16. Armani gives River’s defense a blanket to fall upon. His ability to save possibly every shot demoralizes opposing players, that experience first hand just how hard it is to score on him. If River continues moving on, it will most likely be because of this man. His reflexes and agility are what separates him from other keepers, his hands are also rock solid and he has a firm grip on the penalty box, intercepting most crosses that go near his direction.
2- Miguel Angel Borja, Striker, Palmeiras
Despite struggling through the start of the Libertadores, Borja scored a hat-trick against Junior in the final match of the group stage and continued his tremendous form against Cerro Porteño scoring his team’s 2 goals in a 2-0 win. Borja is a true number 9, he will not blow you away with his technique but he is always in the right place and he is a quality finisher. I predicted Borja would breakout before the game against Cerro Porteño.
3- Giorgian De Arrascaeta, Offensive Midfielder, Cruzeiro
The Uruguayan #10 played a masterclass game against rivals Flamengo. Giorgian scored a goal, and made plenty of incisive passes that created goal scoring opportunities. He showed his quality and magic all game long and was even elected as Man of the Match. After a solid group stage, if Giorgian continues his current run, his stock will most definitely continue rising.
4- Walter Kannemann, Centre-Back, Gremio
Kannemann is the only player on the list whose team lost in the first leg but it was nowhere near to being his fault. Walter was elected Man of the Match, as he was solid in defense as usual and he even scored a goal off a corner. Despite losing, a 1-2 defeat playing away from home is not a bad result, and I still consider Gremio the favorites to advance, mainly because of players like Kannemann.
5- Cristian Pavón, Winger, Boca Juniors
Even though he was not in his best form against Libertad, Pavón still provides plenty of value. Despite having an off-day (by his standards) Pavón was still active on the attack and as always very committed to defending and pressing the back line. He also sent in a couple dangerous crossings. Pavón had an outstanding group stage, scoring a goal and dishing out 5 assists. He is perhaps Boca Juniors, one of the top candidates, most indispensable player.
Just Missed the Cut: Martin Campaña, Goalkeeper, Independiente; Lisandro Lopez, Striker, Racing Club; Cassio, Goalkeeper, Corinthians; Diego, Midfielder, Flamengo; Edwin Cardona, Midfielder, Boca Juniors.
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