James prepares for the second Libertadores of his career

São Paulo is preparing to face Talleres, this Thursday (04), in Córdoba, in the first round of group B of the Copa Libertadores. A traditional team in the competition, Tricolor is looking for its fourth title and hopes to count on its stars on the field like James Rodriguez. The Colombian, who has already played in a World Cup and several editions of the Champions League, will compete in the continental tournament for the second time in his career.

The first time happened in 2010. Wearing the number 8 shirt for Banfield, from Argentina, James Rodriguez played in the Libertadores for the first time at the age of 19. In that edition, he played eight matches and scored five goals. In fact, he was fundamental in the Argentine team’s campaign, which ended in the round of 16 of the competition, after being eliminated by Internacional, who would become champions that year.

“I played in the Libertadores for Banfield, I was very young. Time passes quickly, the Libertadores is very difficult with long trips, not like Champions, with short trips. The maximum is two hours, three hours of travel in Europe, everything is close; here the trips are long. I think São Paulo has the team to do things well and be able to win the Libertadores, they have a lot of good, quality players, who can reach the final if everyone stays”, said James, in an interview last year.

After controversies and a near-termination, James should finally get a chance in São Paulo’s starting lineup. After all, coach Thiago Carpini tested the Colombian in the main team during the week and should give the midfielder a chance in the match in Córdoba.

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