Fluminense name squad for Independiente Rivadavia clash, Thiago Silva back | OneFootball

Fluminense announced this Tuesday (11) the list of players called up for the match against Independiente Rivadavia, in the first leg of the 2026 Conmebol Libertadores round of 16. The main news among those selected is the return of center-back Thiago Silva, who has recovered from injury.

Tricolor face the Argentine side this Tuesday at 7 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Maracanã, looking to build an advantage for the second leg of the tie. The teams already faced each other in the group stage of the competition and are now fighting for a place in the quarterfinals.

Thiago Silva’s return is even more important given the problems the defensive sector has faced in recent weeks. Fluminense ended up playing matches with very limited options at center-back, a scenario that increased the responsibility on the available players.

In addition to the captain’s return, Hulk is among the selected players and is expected to take responsibility in leading the attack after John Kennedy’s injury. He suffered a serious knee injury and is only expected to return next season.

Fluminense seek a response in the Libertadores

The clash also marks an opportunity for Fluminense to respond after a period of instability. The team has been trying to regain confidence and productivity, while Luis Zubeldía’s coaching staff prepare the side for a decisive stretch of the season.

In the last round of the Brazilian Championship, against Botafogo, some of the main players were rested at the start of the match precisely with the Libertadores fixture in mind. Names such as Canobbio, Hércules, Martinelli and Lucho Acosta started on the bench and should be given more space in the team again against Independiente Rivadavia.

Fluminense need to build a solid advantage at the Maracanã before traveling to Argentina, where the second leg of the round of 16 will be played.

Check out Fluminense’s squad list:

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.