What you need to know
- Tobías Coppo trusts Leones and says the squad will fight to the last for a historic 2027 Sudamericana spot.
- Coppo discusses the club’s growth, the new coaching staff and the upcoming duel with Emelec.
- Since joining in June 2025, Coppo has become a key figure at Leones.
Coppo earned his star status at Leones. The Argentine midfielder has become vital, thriving in his debut LigaPro season since joining in June 2025 and helping the side clinch promotion.
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Now the stakes rise: the Felino aims for a 2027 Copa Sudamericana berth.
Coppo wants to keep playing in Ecuador.
Coppo, the midfield anchor, highlights the club’s ascent and vows they’ll fight to make history, targeting a win Sunday against Emelec.
- How do you experience this phase of your career at Leones?
Proud of what we’ve achieved. It reflects the work we’ve been doing since 2024 when Esteban Paz took charge. We earned promotion and rebounded this year after a shaky start. Happy with my performance, the squad and my teammates. Everyone chips in to keep things ticking. For my money, the club’s steady rise proves good management.
- How much has the team progressed compared to last season?
We kept a core from last season. Then we added seasoned signings like Juan Luis Anangonó. Leones is progressing well. We’re a family, a solid group, and that unity fuels our strength.
- What’s the outlook in the race for a 2027 Sudamericana place?
The quadrangular didn’t start ideally, yet daily effort is paying off. We switched coaches midway, Matías Córdoba arrived and helped enormously. Spirits are high. Now we’ll keep pushing for qualification.
- What impact has the new coaching staff had?
Our offensive philosophy under coach Córdoba is bearing fruit. We must keep proving that work to secure a spot.
Coppo says he’s happy in Ecuadorian football.
- Have you always shone as a defensive midfielder?
I now excel as a deep‑lying playmaker, though I can also slot in central defence, the position I trained in early on. I handle the ball well and help launch attacks, so I feel at home there.
- Do you prefer playing midfield or centre‑back?
I’ve filled in at centre‑back this season, but midfield suits me best. Regardless, I’ll give everything wherever I’m placed.
- With Emiliano Griffa you’ve built a solid partnership. What’s your role?
I do the gritty work to free Griffa. I step aside so my teammate can gain confidence, unleash himself and reach the box, where he’s already netted several goals. I focus on defence while he roams.
- Which opponent has been toughest to mark?
The clash with Liga de Quito was intense. Alexander Alvarado impressed with his movement and skill. I also had to mark Mauro Díaz of Universidad Católica, a player hard to dispossess who delivers sharp passes when given space.
Leones FC fights for a 2026 Sudamericana slot.
- What convinced you to come to Ecuadorian football?
I arrived in June 2025 when the club was still chasing promotion. The project, the people at Leones, especially Esteban Paz—who lifted the 2008 Libertadores with Liga de Quito—caught my eye. They spoke highly of the club and I wasn’t disappointed. The plan is solid and it shows.
- Are you happy in Ecuador?
Yes, I feel very happy and settled. Fans treat me well and I love living in Ibarra, a calm city.
- Will you stay in Ecuadorian football?
My contract runs out in December. We’ll see what follows, but I want to stay in Ecuadorian football as it’s booming. It’s a great showcase for players; worldwide audiences follow this league. Quality is high and potential huge, so I’d like to remain here.
- Reaching the 2027 Sudamericana is the team’s main goal. Will we lift that trophy next season?
Indeed. Leones is relatively new, yet we’ll battle to the end for qualification. Securing it in our first top‑flight season would be historic.