BUENOS AIRES, Nov. 29 (Xinhua) -- Botafogo manager Artur Jorge has rejected the notion that his team is favorite going into Saturday's Copa Libertadores final against Brazilian rival Atletico Mineiro.
Botafogo, who currently leads the Brazilian Serie A standings, is seeking its first Copa Libertadores triumph while Atletico Mineiro - 10th in the league and winless in its past 10 games - is aiming to secure South America's premier club trophy for a second time.
"Both teams deserve to be in this final," Jorge told a news conference ahead of the clash at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. "Just like us, they [Atletico] have had to beat tough rivals to reach this point, so I don't think either of us can be called favorite."
Botafogo has the advantage in head-to-head duels between the teams this year, registering a 3-0 home victory in July and earning a 0-0 draw in Belo Horizonte earlier this month.
But Jorge insisted those results would count for little on Saturday against an Atletico side that has "nothing to lose".
"We have a tough task to beat our rival," he said. "We will certainly fight for this trophy until the last second, until the last drop of sweat. This team has never failed and we'll fight with all of our strength to win this trophy. The final result is likely to be defined by the small details."
Jorge, who joined Botafogo in April, is aiming for the second title of his career after guiding Braga to the Portuguese League Cup in January.
"Given the size [of the Copa Libertadores], I dare say that this will be the most important game of my career," the 52-year-old said. "I've told the players to enjoy the moment without leaving behind their responsibility." ■
