In a tense battle at high altitude, Flamengo managed to secure a point against LDU Quito, ending their Copa Libertadores match in a 0-0 draw on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The match took place at the Estadio Rodrigo Paz Delgado in Quito, Ecuador, where the hosts aimed to capitalize on their home advantage.
Despite having a slight edge in possession, Flamengo struggled to convert their chances into goals, failing to find the back of the net against a resolute LDU defense. The draw leaves Flamengo with four points, placing them third in Group C, while LDU remains at the top with five points.
The match started slowly, with both teams feeling the effects of the altitude, which sits at over 2,800 meters. Flamengo, led by coach Filipe Luís, had to adapt quickly to the conditions, and they initially controlled the ball well, looking to exploit the flanks. However, the LDU defense was well-organized, and the home team was keen to counterattack.
Flamengo's best opportunity came in the first half when Giorgian De Arrascaeta found himself in a promising position but shot weakly at the goalkeeper, allowing LDU's shot-stopper to make an easy save. "It was a crucial moment for us, and we needed to take our chances better," Arrascaeta remarked post-match.
On the other side, LDU had their own opportunities, with Estrada coming close to scoring but heading the ball wide after a well-placed cross. They also had a goal disallowed for offside, as Estrada's effort was ruled out by VAR, much to the frustration of the home crowd.
As the match progressed, Flamengo's Luiz Araújo missed a golden opportunity to put his team ahead, shooting over the bar after a swift counterattack. The pressure mounted as LDU pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but Flamengo's defense held firm, with Léo Ortiz making a crucial clearance to deny a potential goal from Villamil.
Throughout the match, the players faced challenges with the high altitude affecting their stamina and decision-making. "We knew it would be tough here, but we fought hard to earn a point," said Ortiz after the match.
With the draw, Flamengo now turns their focus to the Brasileirão and the upcoming Copa do Brasil matches. They are set to play Central Córdoba on May 7, 2025, in their next Libertadores encounter, where they will look to improve their standing in the group.
Meanwhile, LDU will aim to maintain their lead in the group as they prepare for their next fixtures. The match showcased the competitive spirit of both teams, with LDU demonstrating why they are currently at the top of Group C.
As the tournament progresses, Flamengo will need to refine their finishing if they hope to advance further in the Copa Libertadores. Coach Filipe Luís emphasized the importance of learning from this match, stating, "We need to convert our chances if we want to compete at this level. Every point counts in this tournament."
Fans can catch the highlights of this match and follow the upcoming games on Disney+ and ESPN, as both teams continue their campaigns in the Copa Libertadores.
