In a tense encounter at the Estádio Casa Blanca in Quito, Ecuador, Flamengo and LDU faced off on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in the third round of the Copa Libertadores group stage, ending in a goalless draw. The match, which kicked off at 19:00 (Brasília time), saw Flamengo struggling to capitalize on their early possession dominance, while LDU maintained their lead in Group C.
Flamengo entered the match looking to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Central Córdoba, which had dropped them to third place in the group. With three points from their first two matches, the pressure was on the Rubro-Negro to secure a result against the group leaders, LDU, who had four points from their previous two fixtures.
In a significant blow for Flamengo, the team was without key player Gonzalo Plata, who was sidelined due to left knee pain sustained during training just a day before the match. According to the club, Plata was unable to participate, forcing coach Filipe Luís to make adjustments to his lineup. Juninho was chosen to step into Plata's role, joining an attacking trio alongside Bruno Henrique and Gerson.
The starting lineup for Flamengo featured Rossi in goal, supported by a backline of Wesley, Léo Ortiz, Danilo, and Ayrton Lucas. The midfield included Pulgar, Evertton Araújo, and Arrascaeta, while the forwards were Gerson, Juninho, and Bruno Henrique. LDU, managed by Pablo Sánchez, fielded Gonzalo Valle; Daniel de la Cruz, Ricardo Adé, Gian Franco Allala, and Leonel Quiñónez; Carlos Gruezo; Kevin Minda, Fernando Cornejo; Bryan Ramírez, Lisandro Alzugaray, and Alex Arce.
From the outset, Flamengo controlled the ball, boasting 64% possession in the first half. However, their inability to create significant scoring opportunities was evident. LDU, adept at exploiting defensive lapses, held their ground and countered effectively, although they too struggled to find the back of the net.
The best chance for Flamengo came in the 36th minute when Arrascaeta received a well-placed pass from Gerson, courtesy of a clever touch from Juninho. Unfortunately, Arrascaeta's shot lacked the power needed to beat Valle, allowing the LDU goalkeeper to make a comfortable save.
As the second half unfolded, Flamengo appeared to lose their edge. The altitude of Quito began to take its toll, and LDU capitalized on this shift in momentum. Filipe Luís responded by introducing Pedro, hoping to inject some energy into the attack. However, LDU's defense remained resolute. In a controversial moment, Estrada found the net for LDU in the 82nd minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside, much to the relief of the Flamengo bench.
Despite a late surge from LDU, which included a near-miss header from Estrada in stoppage time, Flamengo held on for the draw. The result leaves Flamengo with four points from three matches, still in third place in Group C, while LDU leads with five points.
Looking ahead, Flamengo will face Central Córdoba again on May 7, 2025, in a crucial match that could determine their fate in the tournament. Meanwhile, LDU will travel to Venezuela to take on Deportivo Táchira the same day.
As the group stage progresses, Flamengo's next steps will be vital in their quest for advancement. With more home games on the horizon, the Rubro-Negro will need to capitalize on their opportunities if they hope to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.
With the Copa Libertadores heating up, fans are eagerly anticipating how this season will unfold, with both Flamengo and LDU showcasing the competitive spirit and talent that make South American football so captivating.
