Pereira breaks through as flamengo survive group stage scare | OneFootball

Flamengo 1–0 Deportivo Táchira FC: Libertadores Group Stage Analysis

Match Context

Flamengo hosted Deportivo Táchira FC at the Maracanã in the final round of the CONMEBOL Libertadores group stage. The match carried direct implications for the Brazilian side, who needed a win to secure a place in the knockout rounds. The stadium was sold out with more than 67,000 supporters creating a charged atmosphere, while notable football figures such as Carlo Ancelotti, João Gomes, and Vini Jr. watched from the stands.

Flamengo, led by Filipe Luís, entered the match as group runners-up with eight points, trailing Central Córdoba and being chased by LDU Quito. Táchira, already eliminated and without any points, adopted a defensive approach in their final appearance in the competition.

Lineups and Tactical Setups

Flamengo deployed a familiar 4-2-3-1 with Agustín Rossi in goal, a backline of Wesley, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Alex Sandro, and a midfield pairing of Allan and Gerson. Arrascaeta, Luiz Araújo, and Michael operated behind Pedro up front. Notably, Gerson overcame a knee concern to start, but injuries left the side without Plata, Pulgar, or De La Cruz.

Deportivo Táchira lined up in a 5-4-1, with Jesús Camargo in goal and a reinforced five-man defence. The midfield featured Saggiomo, Requena, Cova, and Balza, while Bryan Castillo led the line. Their tactical plan was clear: remain compact, limit spaces, and look for rare moments on the counter.

Key Match Events

Flamengo dominated possession (62%) and produced 20 shots, with nine on target. Despite creating consistent pressure, the Brazilian side struggled to break through an organised Táchira defence. Jesús Camargo delivered a notable performance, making eight saves and keeping the score level into the second half.

The breakthrough arrived in the 66th minute when Léo Pereira scored following a Luiz Araújo assist. Araújo, integral to Flamengo’s attack, also contributed defensively with four tackles and four key passes. Alex Sandro was steady at left-back, while Allan contributed with accurate passing and attempts from distance.

Táchira offered minimal threat, registering just two shots on target and an expected goals figure of 0.17. Their approach focused on absorbing pressure and relying on Camargo to limit the damage.

Statistics

Flamengo completed 89% of their passes (527 of 590), earned four corners, and were called offside twice. They collected three yellow cards (Wesley, Arrascaeta, Luiz Araújo).

Deportivo Táchira saw 38% of the ball, managed two corners, and were shown two yellow cards (Requena, Cova). Their goalkeeper was central, facing a consistent barrage throughout the match.

Wider Implications and Group Standing

Flamengo’s 1–0 win cemented a second-place finish in Group C with 11 points, as LDU overtook the group lead after defeating Central Córdoba. The result was enough for knockout qualification but not to top the group, as goal difference became decisive.

Arrascaeta reached a club milestone as Flamengo’s most capped player in Libertadores history, but will miss the Round of 16 through suspension. The team now looks ahead to further domestic fixtures and an upcoming Club World Cup campaign.

Deportivo Táchira completed their group stage without a win, finishing their continental run amid a difficult spell of results.

Off-Pitch Notes

Flamengo remains active in the transfer market after several recent departures and arrivals, including Pablo, Danilo, and Juninho. The club managed to field a deep squad despite injuries. Several former Flamengo players also featured in transfer headlines across Brazil and abroad.

Refereeing duties were overseen by Carlos Ortega, with Keiner Jimenez handling VAR.

Flamengo faces Fortaleza next in the Brasileirão at the Maracanã, before turning their focus to the global stage later in June.