Imagine if? LDU knock out Mirassol, could meet Fluminense in semis | OneFootball

Ecuadorians advance on penalties, will face Palmeiras in the quarterfinals, and emerge as potential rivals for Tricolor in the race for a spot in the grand final

Fluminense could have a historic and nostalgia-filled reunion in the semifinals of the 2026 Copa Libertadores. If they confirm their favoritism and eliminate Platense (ARG) in the quarterfinals, Tricolor could meet LDU (ECU) again, the team that beat them in the unforgettable 2008 continental final.

The possibility gained strength on Thursday night. The Quito side secured its place in the quarterfinals by beating Mirassol 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw in Ecuador. As the first leg in the São Paulo countryside had ended 1-1, the tie was decided in the penalty shootout.

For the historic rematch to happen in the semifinals, both teams need to get through their matchups on the same side of the bracket. LDU will face Palmeiras in the quarterfinals, while Fluminense takes on Platense. One of the finalists in South America will come from these two ties.

See how the quarterfinal bracket stands:

Fluminense x Platense (ARG)

LDU (ECU) x Palmeiras

Flamengo x Tolima (COL) or Independiente Del Valle (ECU)

Estudiantes (ARG) x Corinthians or Rosario Central (ARG)

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