Conmebol has named the officiating crew for the decisive match between Flamengo and Cruzeiro, for the Libertadores round of 16, bringing in a referee with World Cup experience.
The anticipation for the second leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16 is only increasing. After an electrifying 1-1 draw at the Mineirão, Flamengo and Cruzeiro are preparing for the grand decider for a spot in the next round. The match is scheduled for next Wednesday (19th) at 9:30 PM (Brasília time) at the Maracanã, which is expected to be at full capacity to support the home team.
To officiate this high-stakes encounter, Conmebol has appointed Uruguayan referee Gustavo Tejera. The official, who was part of the refereeing team for the 2026 World Cup, will be responsible for managing the game that determines the Rio de Janeiro club’s continuation in the season’s premier continental tournament.
Official Officiating Crew
The officiating team assigned to the match in Rio de Janeiro is composed entirely of professionals from Uruguay. Here is the complete list:
- Referee:Gustavo Tejera (URU)
- Assistant 1:Nicolas Taran (URU)
- Assistant 2:Horacio Ferreiro (URU)
- Fourth Official:José Burgos (URU)
- VAR:Andres Cunha (URU)
Gustavo Tejera’s Experience
The choice of Gustavo Tejera reflects the governing body’s search for an experienced profile. The Uruguayan gained global recognition by officiating two important matches in the last World Cup. He oversaw Mexico‘s victory over South Korea in the group stage and was in charge of Egypt‘s qualification over Australia, decided by penalty kicks.
“Tejera is a name that brings experience, having officiated important matches at a global level, which is crucial for an interstate derby of such significance,” comments the M360 Team.
Record with Rubro-Negro
Flamengo fans are well acquainted with Gustavo Tejera‘s style. He officiated Flamengo’s 2-1 victory over Racing in the group stage of the 2023 Libertadores. However, the referee was also present during the team’s 3-2 loss to Lanús in this year’s Copa Sudamericana, also at the sacred Maracanã stadium.
Before shifting their focus entirely to the continental decider, Flamengo will play a match in the Brazilian Serie A. This Sunday (16th), the squad led by the coach faces Mirassol away from home, in a match valid for the 23rd round. The full focus remains on securing three points to stay among the leaders of the national competition before the reunion with the Minas Gerais team in the Libertadores.
By M360 Team
