The Copa Libertadores semi-finals delivered drama and excitement this week, with Flamengo securing a narrow victory over Racing Club in the first leg. Here's a recap of the key moments and statistics:
Flamengo 1 - Racing Club 0: A Tight Affair
Flamengo managed a 1-0 win at home against Racing. While a slender lead, history suggests it gives them a significant advantage. According to IFFHS, Flamengo have progressed in 7 out of 9 two-legged Copa Libertadores knockout ties after winning the first leg at home. However, Racing Club have shown resilience in the past, coming back from behind in 3 of 5 two-legged knockout ties after losing the first leg away.
Key Stats and Moments
- Racing's impressive run of 6 wins against Brazilian teams in CONMEBOL competitions came to an end.
- Racing goalkeeper Facundo Cambeses conceded only his 2nd goal in the last 10 matches.
- Flamengo’s Giorgian de Arrascaeta equalled Marcos Rocha as the outfield player with the joint-most victories (56) in Copa Libertadores history.
- Gabriel Villamíl is the first player to score a brace in the first half of a Copa Libertadores semifinal since Bruno Henrique did so in 2021 for Flamengo.
LDU Quito Stuns Palmeiras
In the other semi-final, LDU Quito delivered a shocking 3-0 thrashing to Palmeiras. This result marks a historical joint-biggest defeat by a Brazilian team against a foreign team in Copa Libertadores semi-finals or finals, equalling Boca Juniors' 3-0 victory over Grêmio in 2007.
Historical Significance
LDU Quito's victory is particularly notable as it's only the 4th time an Ecuadorian team has scored 3+ goals against a Brazilian opponent in Copa Libertadores knockout matches. LDU Quito themselves were responsible for two of the previous instances.
What's Next?
The second legs promise to be intense. Racing will need to overcome their away defeat, while Palmeiras face an uphill battle to overturn LDU Quito's commanding lead. Will Flamengo hold on? Can Racing mount a comeback? The Copa Libertadores semi-finals are far from over!