In a crucial clash for the Copa Libertadores, Flamengo faced off against LDU de Quito on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Estádio Casa Blanca in Quito. This match marked the third round of Group C, with LDU leading the group with four points, while Flamengo was in third place with three points. The game kicked off at 19:00 (Brasília time) and was broadcast live on ESPN and Disney+.
Flamengo arrived in Quito facing significant challenges, particularly due to the high altitude of over 2,800 meters, which poses a unique test for players not acclimated to such conditions. The team, managed by Filipe Luís, was already dealing with several key absences. Notably, Gonzalo Plata was ruled out just before the match due to knee pain, which will require further medical evaluation upon return to Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, Nicolás De La Cruz and Allan were left behind in Brazil as a precaution against altitude-related health issues.
The absence of Alex Sandro, who is recovering from a left thigh edema, added to the team's woes. Flamengo's starting lineup featured Rossi in goal, with a defensive line of Wesley, Léo Ortiz, Danilo, and Ayrton Lucas. The midfield consisted of Evertton Araújo, Pulgar, and Arrascaeta, while the attack included Gerson, Bruno Henrique, and Juninho.
Despite the setbacks, Flamengo's recent form in the Campeonato Brasileiro had been promising, with two wins and a draw in their last three matches. This included a commanding 6-0 victory over Juventude just days before the match against LDU. However, the team was still reeling from a disappointing 2-1 loss to Central Córdoba in their previous Libertadores outing, which heightened the stakes for this encounter.
Flamengo's history against LDU in the Libertadores adds another layer of intrigue to the matchup. The two teams have faced each other in the past, with Flamengo securing a narrow 1-0 victory in Quito during the 2019 tournament. However, they also suffered a 2-1 defeat at home, indicating the difficulty of overcoming LDU in their own stadium.
On the other side, LDU, coached by Pablo Sánchez, entered the match with confidence following consecutive victories in the Ecuadorian league. The team aimed to exploit their home advantage, particularly the altitude, which has historically given them an edge over visiting teams. Their lineup featured Gonzalo Valle in goal, supported by a defense comprising Daniel de la Cruz, Ricardo Adé, Gian Franco Allala, and Leonel Quiñónez. The midfield was anchored by Carlos Gruezo, with Bryan Ramírez, Gabriel Villamil, and Alzugaray supporting the attack led by Alex Arce.
As the match unfolded, Flamengo's strategy focused on adapting to the altitude and minimizing the impact of their absences. The coaching staff implemented specific measures to enhance player hydration and recovery, understanding the physical toll the altitude could take as the game progressed. Filipe Luís hinted at tactical adjustments, potentially repositioning players to better cope with LDU's aggressive style of play.
In the early stages of the match, LDU sought to capitalize on their home ground advantage, pushing forward with intense pressure. Flamengo's defense, however, remained resolute, aiming to absorb the pressure and look for opportunities to counterattack. The first half saw both teams exchanging chances, but neither could find the back of the net, with both goalkeepers making crucial saves.
As the match approached the second half, the altitude began to affect the players' stamina, showcasing the importance of fitness and tactical discipline. Flamengo's midfielders, particularly Arrascaeta and Pulgar, worked tirelessly to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities, while Bruno Henrique and Juninho looked to exploit any defensive lapses from LDU.
With the match still scoreless, the second half became a battle of endurance and tactical execution. Flamengo's players were determined to prove their resilience despite the challenging conditions, while LDU aimed to leverage their familiarity with the altitude to wear down their opponents.
In the final minutes of the match, the intensity heightened as both teams pushed for a decisive goal. Flamengo's supporters, despite being thousands of miles away, watched closely, hoping for a breakthrough that could revive their team's Libertadores campaign. A victory in Quito would not only boost Flamengo's points tally but also restore confidence after the recent setbacks.
As the clock ticked down, the outcome remained uncertain, with both teams showing flashes of brilliance and moments of fatigue. The tactical battle between Filipe Luís and Pablo Sánchez played out on the field, with each coach making critical decisions in an attempt to secure a vital win.
Ultimately, the match encapsulated the drama and unpredictability of the Copa Libertadores, where altitude, history, and team dynamics converge to create a captivating spectacle. With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, Flamengo and LDU faced off in a contest that would significantly impact their respective campaigns in the tournament.
As the final whistle approached, fans across Brazil and Ecuador held their breath, knowing that the result would have lasting implications for both teams' aspirations in the Copa Libertadores. For Flamengo, a win would breathe new life into their campaign, while LDU aimed to solidify their position at the top of Group C.
