Apertura and Clausura

In some countries of Latin America, usually a year-long football championship is divided into two separate six-month Competitions: Clausura Apertura and for which often has its own championship titles will be awarded. One reason for this is to, among other things, that many American teams due to the European transfer periods in summer and winter ( where many players moving to Europe ) are not able to play through the whole year with the same squad.

Designation

In Colombia, the word is used instead Finalización Clausura usually. Often the Roman numerals I and II there are used to distinguish the half- Series tournaments. In French-speaking Haiti, competitions Ouverture and Clôture be called.

Apertura in the first half and Clausura in the second half played in Chile, Ecuador, Honduras, Colombia, Paraguay, and El Salvador. Apertura in the second half and Clausura in the first half of the following year will be played in Argentina, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Uruguay (since season 2005/ 06, previously in the first model) and Venezuela.

Historical " Campeonato de Apertura " in Chile

From 1933 to 1950, the Campeonato de Apertura was fought with varying discharge mode as Vorsaisonturnier in Chile. It is often regarded as the predecessor of the Chilean competition cup competition, the Copa Chile. It should not be confused with the current Torneio de Apertura ( the current Chilean soccer championship ).

Outside Latin America

In the Japanese J. League, a similar system was used from 1993 to 2005. Return Round counted separately, at the end of the season then determined the winners of the two rounds in a final encounter the Master. Won a team both rounds, accounted for this finale.