Guillermo Páez on Viejos Cracks: 'We knew the 1973 final was managed by Argentinians'

Former Chilean international Guillermo Páez has voiced strong accusations regarding the 1973 Copa Libertadores final, asserting that the match was unfairly influenced by Argentinian interests. Speaking on the program "Viejos Cracks," Páez, who was part of the 1974 World Cup squad for Chile, recalled the controversial loss suffered by Colo Colo against Argentina's Independiente.

Páez explicitly stated that the players were aware of the manipulation. "We knew that this was being handled by the Argentinians," he told Cooperativa Deportes. He detailed how this alleged manipulation extended to logistical aspects, including "hotels, call-ups." This suggests a systematic effort to disadvantage Colo Colo and benefit the Argentine club.

The former player's statement implies a deep-seated unfairness in the competition's crucial match. "They did whatever they wanted," Páez added, underscoring his belief that the outcome was predetermined rather than decided on the field. His remarks bring renewed attention to historical controversies surrounding South American club football's premier tournament.