Rumored Atlanta United target Ezequiel Barco had a big night on Wednesday, scoring for Argentine club Independiente to help them lift the Copa Sudamericana against Brazilian club Flamengo.
With Independiente trailing 1-0 at a sold-out Maracana, Barco stepped to the spot and converted a penalty kick to equalize late in the first half. The result stood, giving Independiente a 3-2 aggregate win over their Brazilian rivals and the Copa Sudamericana title.
Argentine outlets have reported that the final was Barco’s last game for the club and that he’ll soon join Atlanta on a $12 million move.
The 18-year-old Argentina Under-20 international downplayed the transfer talk on Wednesday night.
“Right now I want to enjoy this very important moment and then we shall see,” he said. “We are delighted with this great triumph and to be champions. I dedicate the goal to my grandfather who recently passed away.”
