The stage is set, and the atmosphere is palpable. Fans all across North America eagerly tune in to beIN SPORTS as they await the grand kickoff of the 2023 Copa Sudamericana Final. Pre-match proceedings commence at 3:30PM ET / 12:30PM PT, hyping up an encounter that promises to be electric.

The Copa Sudamericana has long stood as South America's pinnacle club competition, mirroring the allure and gravitas of Europe's UEFA Europa League since its reformation in 2002. This Saturday, Fortaleza, in their 17th game of the season in South American club competition, aims to etch its name in the annals of history. Embarking from the qualifying rounds of the Copa Libertadores, the team has been nothing short of a revelation, overpowering titans like Libertad, Atletico Mineiro, and Corinthians en route to the final.

However, the path to glory doesn't promise to be a cakewalk. Awaiting them is LDU Quito, a formidable opponent with a storied legacy both domestically and internationally. The Ecuadorians, with their 2009 Copa Sudamericana, 2008 Copa Libertadores titles, and eleven Ecuadorian Serie A championships, stand as a daunting final hurdle.

In a recent interaction, Argentine Manager of Fortaleza, Juan Pablo Vojvoda, shared his sentiments on the colossal occasion:

When asked about the magnitude of reaching the Copa Sudamericana Final, Vojvoda remarked, "It holds immense significance for the entire club and all the people of Fortaleza, and especially for the entire northeast. We have managed to reach this match, and now the most exciting part is preparing for the next two or three days leading up to Saturday."

The tantalizing prospect of victory, which would indelibly mark Fortaleza's place in history, prompted the question of how such a defining match is approached. Vojvoda opined, "There are many ways to define them. Finals encompass a bit of everything - tactics, strategy. But I believe it's also about the heart and primarily about each team imposing its style of play. That's how the game will unfold."

Reflecting on the team's journey and the elements that have enabled their appearance in the final, the Argentine tactician elaborated, "I believe the team's strength lay in its approach from the very first match. Securing crucial away victories and clinching top spot in the group phase enabled us to play decisive matches at Castelao. That momentum and home advantage were pivotal in bringing us to this juncture."