BUENOS AIRES — In an exciting match on Thursday, Argentina’s Racing Club triumphed over Brazil’s Corinthians with a score of 2-1, earning a place in the Copa Sudamericana final for the first time in their history. The two teams had previously drawn 2-2 in their first leg encounter in Sao Paulo the week before.

Racing will face another Brazilian side, Cruzeiro, in the final, scheduled for November 23 in Asuncion. Cruzeiro secured their spot after a narrow 1-0 victory over Argentina’s Lanus in the semifinals on Wednesday.

Corinthians initially took the lead in Buenos Aires thanks to a brilliant back heel assist from Dutch striker Memphis Depay, which set up Yuri Alberto for the opening goal. However, Racing swiftly turned the game around, scoring a penalty in the 36th minute and following up three minutes later with a goal from Juan Fernando Quintero after a rapid counterattack, sealing their comeback. Both of Racing’s goals were netted by Quintero.

This victory allowed Racing to sidestep a scenario where all the teams in the finals would have been Brazilian. The spotlight will also shine on the Copa Libertadores final, featuring Atletico Mineiro against Botafogo, which will take place in Buenos Aires on November 30.

Memphis Depay, the talented 30-year-old forward, aims to remain a key player for the Dutch national team. He is under contract with Corinthians through the 2026 World Cup, as the team currently battles to avoid relegation in the Brazilian championship, which has seven games remaining this season.