Copa Libertadores 2026 Quarter-Finals: Flamengo take big step towards last four with win over Independiente del Valle
Flamengo took a big step towards defending their Copa Libertadores title with a win against Independiente del Valle in Quito. The result means it is the first time that the visiting side has won a meeting between them in CONMEBOL competitions.
Independiente del Valle began the game better and had most of the early chances. They controlled the tempo and the first half was largely played around Flamengo’s box. In the 20th minute, they came close to taking the lead.
A dinked cross from Aron Rodríguez found Carlos González, whose first-time strike came off the left post. It didn’t deter Los Negriazules as they continued to create more opportunities, racking up 10 shots in the first 45 minutes to none from their opponents.
The second half started in a similar fashion with the Ecuadorian side keeping control of possession. However, they were hit with a sucker punch just after the hour mark. After a fumble in the midfield, Jorginho drove forward and played a precise ball on the left for Samuel Lino. The Brazilian winger delivered a cross at the far post for Bruno Henrique to finish home.
Joaquín Papa’s men continued to probe for an equaliser and were only denied by a resolute Flamengo backline. It looked like only a matter of time before del Valle would draw level, but Mengão once again showed their ruthless side.
Emerson Royal delivered a free-kick from the right side, and centre-back Léo Pereira rose highest to score his side’s second goal of the night in the 75th minute. Papa threw on Ronald Briones and Matías Perelló to salvage something from the game.
The two players had combined to put the game to rest against Tolima in the previous round, but were unable to have any impact here.
Leonardo Jardim’s side saw out the game and once again showed their big team mentality. They scored with their only two shots on target while their opponents had seven shots on goal but didn’t score.
Flamengo will be the clear favourites to progress when the return leg takes place at Maracanã next Thursday.
