CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores

The Copa Libertadores (aka Copa Libertadores de América) is a continental football competition held annually for the top South American clubs, organized by the CONfederación SudaMEricana de FútBOL (CONMEBOL/CSF). The name of the top South American club tournament is an homage to the "Liberators" of the independence wars of Latin America. In 1948, Copa de Campeones was held in Chile, which was a precursor event. It began in 1960, following the success of the European (Champions) Cup. Originally, each nation entered 1 club (their champion). In 1998 Mexican clubs were invited and since 2000, nations have 2+ entries and the main tournament now has 32 slots (for 11 nations), with a preliminary round involving 12 teams, so 38 clubs in total play yearly.