Flamengo elimina o Inter e avança às quartas da Libertadores
The Libertadores nights always bring drama, and this week was no exception. Flamengo went to Porto Alegre with the advantage after a narrow 1–0 win at Maracanã, but instead of sitting back, the team showed maturity and control at Beira-Rio. In front of a packed stadium, Internacional tried to use the energy of its fans, but the plan was quickly neutralized.
The match actually began with some unexpected chaos: a shower of metallic confetti thrown by the crowd delayed kickoff by about 20 minutes. According to CONMEBOL’s regulations, the club responsible for such incidents can face a financial penalty, and Inter now fears a heavy fine. Once the pitch was cleared and the referee allowed play to start, the focus shifted entirely to the football.
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From the opening minutes, Flamengo looked comfortable. The team circulated the ball with confidence, limiting Inter’s pressing game and silencing the stands bit by bit. An early chance by Varela was wasted, but the warning signs were already there. The breakthrough came at the 26th minute when Samuel Lino created danger on the wing, forcing a rebound from goalkeeper Rochet. The ball fell to Plata, who calmly set it up for Arrascaeta. Without hesitation, the Uruguayan struck first-time and placed Flamengo in front. It was his 15th goal of the season, further confirming his role as the team’s leader in decisive moments.
The first half nearly ended with another blow to Inter. Bruno Henrique found the net on a counterattack, but the flag was raised for offside. That disallowed goal did not reduce Flamengo’s momentum. In the second half, Bruno Henrique once again beat the defense, only to be denied by another offside call. But this time, the substitute Pedro sealed the result. Coming on for Bruno Henrique, he positioned himself perfectly in the box, receiving a cross from Luiz Araújo that was flicked on by Léo Pereira. At 42 minutes of the second half, Pedro finished with composure to close the score at 2–0.
Over the two legs, Flamengo showed superiority. A solid defense, quick transitions, and lethal finishing were combined into a complete performance. Internacional, despite effort, could not find answers. Their elimination at home leaves questions about the team’s competitiveness at the continental level, while Flamengo marches on with confidence.
Now, the Rubro-Negro prepares to face Estudiantes from Argentina in the quarterfinals. With Arrascaeta in great form and Pedro returning to his goal-scoring rhythm, expectations are high. For the fans, this victory was more than just progression; it was a statement. Flamengo has once again shown that it is not only a contender but a genuine favorite for the Libertadores crown.
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