Conmebol has finalized the refereeing assignments for the first leg of the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 clash between Flamengo and Cruzeiro, appointing a name with World Cup experience.
A high-stakes atmosphere surrounds the Rubro-Negro camp. This Wednesday (12), Flamengo faces Cruzeiro at the Mineirão in the opening leg of their Copa Libertadores Round of 16 series.
The matchup promises to be a highlight of the continental competition, pitting two traditional clubs against each other in the battle for a spot in the next stage.
To ensure control over a game of this magnitude, Conmebol has appointed Argentine referee Yael Falcón.
The 37-year-old official, who also holds a degree in Physical Education, brings the recent experience of having officiated in the latest World Cup, held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, where he took charge of three matches.
International experience on the pitch
Yael Falcón is no stranger to the international stage. During the World Cup, he was involved in significant matches, including the knockout stage clash between Switzerland and Algeria.
In addition to his participation in the world’s biggest international tournament, the Argentine has officiated 17 matches in the Copa Libertadores since 2023.
Falcón’s history with Flamengo is brief, but notable. He was the official in charge of their 1-0 defeat to Bolívar at the high altitude of La Paz in August 2024.
Despite the negative result on that day, the Rio-based club secured their qualification, having won the first leg 2-0.
Expectations and officiating
The full officiating crew will feature assistant referees Facundo Rodríguez and Pablo González, while Hector Paletta will be responsible for the VAR.
Journalist Pedro Paulo Catonho shared his opinion:
Despite being young, Falcón has a solid resume. He has officiated FIFA tournaments, such as the World Cup and the U-20 World Cup, the Club World Cup, and has 17 matches in the Copa Libertadores. Since 2023, the Argentine has been officiating games in the ‘Glória Eterna,’ South America’s premier tournament.
The commentator also highlighted a point for the Rubro-Negro players to keep in mind:
Let’s hope he does a good job and, above all, isn’t biased toward the home side. Argentine referees tend to let the game flow and don’t blow the whistle for every minor foul; Flamengo needs to be aware of that. May the 22 players on the pitch be the stars of the show.
Kickoff is set for 9:30 PM (Brasília Time). The winner of this series will face the winner between Tolima and Del Valle in the quarterfinals.
The deciding leg for the spot in the next round will take place on August 19th at the Maracanã.
