Palermo Under Fire After Olimpia’s Shock Defeat in Libertadores Opener

Martín Palermo finds himself under intense scrutiny after Olimpia's stunning 3-2 loss to San Antonio Bulo Bulo in their Copa Libertadores debut. The Bolivian side, making its first-ever appearance in an international competition, secured the win with a 100th-minute penalty, sending shockwaves through South American football.

Paraguayan media reacted harshly. Versus described it as “one of the worst defeats in Olimpia’s history,” while ABC said the team failed against “a nearly amateur opponent.” Última Hora simply headlined: “Disgrace.”

Palermo didn’t hide from responsibility: “We didn’t represent Olimpia as we should. I’m the first responsible for our poor form.” The Argentine coach now faces mounting pressure to turn things around quickly. Olimpia’s next test will be at home against Vélez Sarsfield, led by Palermo’s close friend and former teammate Guillermo Barros Schelotto.