Sánchez scores volley as Cruz Azul falls to Flamengo in FIFA Derby of the Americas | OneFootball

AL-RAYYAN, Qatar — The FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 resumed with reigning Concacaf Champions Cup winners Cruz Azul falling 2-1 to CONMEBOL’s Copa Libertadores winners CR Flamengo in the FIFA Derby of the Americas 2025 on Wednesday at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan, Qatar.

Carlos Rotondi attempted a left-footed strike inside the box in the 13’, connecting on a precise ball from Carlos Rodríguez, as the Mexican side tried to get the first goal.

Giorgian de Arrascaeta opened the scoring in the 15’ to place the Brazilian club in front, cutting off a ball out of the back from Gonzalo Piovi to strike from close range.

Rotondi had a closer look on goal in the 19’ with a left-footed curler from midfield that ended just outside the left post.

Jorge Sánchez equalized for Cruz Azul in the 44’ with a right-footed strike off the volley from the outside edge of the box, placing the sides on level terms heading into the halftime break.

Gabriel Fernández had an attempt inside the box in the 46’ that was blocked by Flamengo goalkeeper Agustín Rossi.

De Arrascaeta broke through with the match-winner in the 75’, striking off a second attempt from the left side of the box. Rotondi attempted to make the goal line clearance, but the play was ruled a goal.

Piovi and Fernández had attempts inside the box in the second and third minutes of stoppage time, respectively, but were unable to find the tying goal.

Cruz Azul exits the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 and heads into the short offseason in Liga MX after a semifinals finish in the Apertura 2025. La Máquina will begin preparations for the Clausura 2026 campaign, and its title defense in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup.