The Copa Libertadores, one of the most prestigious club football tournaments in South America, underwent a significant format change in 2017 under the leadership of Alejandro Domínguez at Conmebol. This new playoff structure has complicated matters for Argentine clubs, as they are now required to play four matches to qualify for the tournament. The recent defeat of Argentinos Juniors in Round 2 has brought to light a troubling statistic: only two out of ten Argentine teams (20%) have managed to progress to the group stage in the playoffs, with Atlético Tucumán in 2017 and Estudiantes de La Plata in 2022 being the only successful teams from the country in this format.

This statistic reflects a broader challenge facing Argentine football clubs within the competitive landscape of South American football. The decision to increase the number of teams in the competition from 38 to 44 aimed to enhance football's appeal in the region, but it appears to have inadvertently created added pressure on Argentine teams, known for their historical strength in the tournament. The inability to advance through the playoff rounds raises concerns about the current state and future competitiveness of Argentine football on an international stage.

As this pattern continues, it prompts speculation about the long-term viability of Argentine clubs in the Copa Libertadores. The consistent failure to navigate these playoff rounds successfully could lead to further financial and reputational repercussions for these teams, potentially harming their ability to attract top talent and compete effectively in both domestic and international competitions. With only two successes out of ten attempts, the need for strategic changes in how Argentine football approaches the Copa Libertadores becomes increasingly urgent.