Amidst the Libertadores decider, Flamengo star Samuel Lino could achieve his highest-scoring season, adding an extra layer of excitement to the clash against Independiente del Valle.
Samuel Lino, one of Flamengo’s key players under Leonardo Jardim’s management, has a particular objective that adds extra intrigue to this Thursday’s (10) decisive match. The red-and-black team travels to Ecuador to face Independiente del Valle in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals.
Beyond the importance of the continental clash, the Brazilian forward is on the verge of setting his highest-scoring season of his professional career. With only two goals separating him from his own record, expectations are high for him to reach this personal milestone precisely at a key moment for the Rio de Janeiro club.
Personal Record on the Line
Samuel Lino’s most prolific scoring phase was recorded in 2021/22 when he played for Gil Vicente of Portugal, scoring 14 goals. In the current 2026 campaign for Flamengo, the player has already notched 12 goals. The proximity to equaling, and potentially surpassing, this achievement adds extra motivation for the number 16 in every match, especially in this decisive Libertadores clash.
Consolidated Season and Recognition
Samuel Lino’s 2026 statistics are impressive: with 43 matches played, 12 goals scored, and ten assists. Such performance has solidified him as one of Flamengo’s offensive pillars since Leonardo Jardim’s arrival in March. His consistency on the field has not gone unnoticed, resulting in a recent call-up to the Brazil national team.
Brazil National Team Call-Up
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti included Samuel Lino in the squad list for the upcoming FIFA international window, which will take place between September 21 and October 6. The Brazil national team will face Australia and India in friendly matches. This is the second time the forward has received a call-up to represent the country, highlighting his growing prominence in the national and international football scene.
Preview of the Upcoming Match
With Samuel Lino confirmed, Flamengo now focuses on the crucial clash against Independiente del Valle. The first leg of the Libertadores quarterfinals is scheduled for this Thursday (10) at 9:30 PM BRT (Brasília Time) at Estádio Olímpico Atahualpa. Fans can watch the game on ESPN, via cable television, and through the Disney+ streaming service.
Samuel Lino’s pursuit of a personal record intertwines with Flamengo’s aspirations in the Libertadores and the Brazilian Serie A. His high-performance moment, endorsed by the Brazil national team, raises expectations for the team’s performance in the decisive stages of the competitions. With each goal, the forward not only contributes to the club’s success but also solidifies his position as one of the great talents in Brazilian football today.
M360 Team
