Lanús Claims Copa Sudamericana in Dramatic Penalty Shootout Victory Over Atlético-MG

Losada's Heroics Deliver Copa Sudamericana Glory to Lanús

ASUNCIÓN, Paraguay — Lanús claimed the 2025 Copa Sudamericana title in dramatic fashion, defeating Atlético Mineiro 5-4 on penalties after a grueling 0-0 draw through 120 minutes at Estadio Defensores del Chaco on Saturday night. Goalkeeper Nahuel Losada emerged as the hero, saving three penalties in the shootout to deliver continental glory to the Argentine club.

The final unfolded as a tactical stalemate, with both sides demonstrating exceptional defensive discipline throughout regulation time. Clear-cut scoring opportunities proved scarce as defensive organizations dominated, creating a tense atmosphere befitting a continental showpiece. Atlético came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 27th minute when Bernard struck the right post with a free kick from a difficult angle, but the woodwork denied the Brazilian side.

Physical intensity increased as the match wore on, with referee decisions playing a significant role. Carlos Izquierdoz received a yellow card in the 71st minute for a foul on Hulk, who himself was cautioned nine minutes later after a challenge on the Lanús captain. Alan Franco joined the book in the 85th minute for a foul on Rodrigo Castillo, shortly before being forced off with an injury that had delayed play moments earlier.

With the score still deadlocked at 90 minutes, both managers made crucial tactical adjustments heading into extra time. Lanús introduced fresh attacking options, bringing on Walter Bou and Franco Watson for Rodrigo Castillo and Eduardo Salvio in the 94th minute. Atlético responded with Biel replacing Dudu at the same juncture, joining earlier substitutes Gustavo Scarpa, Caio Paulista, and Alexsander in the Brazilian lineup.

The additional 30 minutes produced increased urgency but no breakthrough. Lanús manager continued to shuffle his pack, introducing Juan Ramírez and Armando Méndez for Marcelino Moreno and Gonzalo Pérez in the 103rd minute, while Atlético brought on Renzo Saravia for Rony in the 105th minute. A final substitution saw Lautaro Acosta replace Agustín Medina for Lanús in the 119th minute, setting the stage for the penalty drama to follow.

The shootout began with high drama as Losada dove to his right to save Hulk's opening penalty. Everson immediately responded by denying Walter Bou, keeping the shootout level. Carlos Izquierdoz then stepped up to convert emphatically to the top left corner, setting Lanús on their way.

The next four penalties found the net as Gustavo Scarpa, Sasha Marcich, Igor Gomes, and Dylan Aquino all converted. Losada then made his second crucial save, pushing Biel's effort away to give Lanús the advantage. However, Lautaro Acosta's miss over the bar kept Atlético alive, and remarkably, goalkeeper Everson stepped up to drill his penalty into the top right corner.

Agustín Cardozo responded with a powerful strike to the high centre of goal, and Alexsander matched him for Atlético. Franco Watson then had the opportunity to win it, calmly slotting to the bottom left corner. With the pressure mounting, Vitor Hugo needed to score to keep Atlético's hopes alive, but Losada completed his hat-trick of saves, diving to his left to secure the trophy for Lanús.

The victory marks Lanús' first Copa Sudamericana title, capping a remarkable tournament run with continental silverware. For Atlético Mineiro, despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances throughout the match, their campaign ended in heartbreak at the penalty spot. Losada's heroics will be remembered for generations as the defining moment that brought South American glory to Lanús.