Estudiantes is exploring an unprecedented solution to host Flamengo in the Libertadores: ceding part of its fanbase to meet Conmebol requirements and keep the match in La Plata.
The next stage of the Copa Libertadores features a clash of giants between Estudiantes and Flamengo, but the logistics for the first leg in Argentina present an unexpected challenge. The Argentine team’s stadium, Jorge Luis Hirschi, does not fully meet Conmebol‘s regulations for the competition’s semifinals, particularly regarding capacity for visiting fans.
Faced with this situation, Estudiantes is seeking alternatives to ensure the first leg, scheduled for mid-October, takes place at their home ground in La Plata. The proposed solution is bold and aims to accommodate Flamengo fans according to the South American football governing body’s guidelines.
Stadium Capacity Challenge
The main hurdle for Estudiantes is the number of seats allocated to visiting fans. The current section at the Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi, also known as UNO, can only hold 2,000 people.
However, the Libertadores regulations for the semifinals require a minimum capacity of 4,000 seats for the opposing team’s fans. If the issue is not resolved, the Argentine club risks losing home-field advantage.
Innovative Proposal for Rubro-Negro Accommodation
To circumvent this Conmebol requirement, Estudiantes is considering an unusual measure: ceding part of its own space reserved for local fans to expand the visitors’ section. According to information obtained by the M360 Team, the idea is to combine the two sections, thus reaching the minimum 4,000 seats for Flamengo fans. This strategy would allow the match to take place in La Plata, avoiding the transfer of the game to another venue.
The Search for a Definitive Agreement
Despite the proposal, the final decision still depends on direct approval from Conmebol and a formal understanding between the managements of Estudiantes and Flamengo. Negotiations are underway to find common ground that is satisfactory for both parties and ensures the safety and comfort of everyone present.
The UNO Stadium, though modern and owned by the club, has a crowd limitation for major events like a Libertadores semifinal.
Semifinal Dates and Scenario
The semifinal matches between Estudiantes and Flamengo are scheduled for the weeks of October 14 and 21. The first leg, if the agreement is finalized, will be at the Argentine team’s stadium. The decisive second leg will take place at the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, where Flamengo will have the advantage of playing at home due to having the better overall record in the competition. The other semifinal will pit Fluminense against Palmeiras, completing the matchups.
The ongoing negotiation between Estudiantes, Flamengo, and Conmebol is crucial for determining the venue of the first semifinal match of the Libertadores. The potential concession of part of the Argentine fanbase to the visitors from Rio demonstrates the complexity of hosting high-level games and the search for creative solutions to meet regulations.
The expectation is that a positive outcome will be reached in the coming days, ensuring that the spectacle of South American football proceeds without major disruptions for the teams and their fans. Flamengo continues its preparation, awaiting the final decision that could directly impact the atmosphere of the first continental duel.
