Gustavo Costas (foto: Getty Images)
Racing Club wins its first international trophy since 1988, led by coach Gustavo Costas, who also triumphed as a player in their last international success.
Racing Club has written another glorious chapter in its history, clinching its first international trophy since 1988 by defeating Cruzeiro 3-1 in the Copa Sudamericana final. The triumph not only ends a 35-year wait for international success but also has a remarkable connection to that fabled year: their coach, Gustavo Costas, was part of the team in 1988 as a center-back and has now repeated the feat from the sidelines.
A lifetime connection to Racing
Costas, who spent nearly a decade at Racing Club as a player, was a key defensive figure in the 1988 squad that claimed the Supercopa Sudamericana. Now, as a coach, he has guided the club back to international glory in what is his third spell in charge. Costas took over the team in January 2023, fresh off a stint managing the Bolivian national team, and has quickly transformed Racing into a competitive force on both domestic and international fronts.
Impressive form under Costas
In addition to their Copa Sudamericana triumph, Racing is enjoying a strong run in the Argentine league, having won four consecutive matches to climb to third place, just four points behind the leaders. The team’s resurgence under Costas is evident, with tactical discipline and attacking flair revitalizing their campaign.
An experienced hand
Costas, now 60, has had an extensive managerial career across South America and beyond, including spells in Saudi Arabia with Al Nassr. But this latest achievement will undoubtedly rank as one of his finest moments, cementing his legendary status at Racing as both a player and a coach.
For Racing fans, this victory is more than just a trophy—it’s a symbol of the club’s enduring spirit, with Gustavo Costas at the heart of it all once again.