Flamengo Starts Libertadores Quarterfinals Against Del Valle in Quito’s Altitude
Flamengo begins a challenging journey in the thin air of Quito against Independiente del Valle in the Libertadores quarterfinals.
The quest for a fifth Conmebol Libertadores title enters a decisive new chapter. Flamengo, the continental champions, kick off their quarterfinal campaign this Thursday (10th) against Independiente del Valle.
The match venue is the Estádio Olímpico Atahualpa in Quito, Ecuador, with kickoff set for 9:30 PM (Brasília time).
In addition to the strength of their Ecuadorian opponent, Flamengo, known as the Rubro-Negro, will face the challenge of playing at an altitude of 2,850 meters above sea level, a factor that has historically imposed difficulties on Brazilian clubs.
This clash marks the beginning of a battle for a spot in the semifinals of South America’s most coveted competition.
The return leg of this tie will take place at the Maracanã next week, with the massive support of their home crowd. Flamengo enters this duel in excellent form this season.
Current Phase and Track Record
Flamengo, referred to as O Mais Querido (The Most Beloved), is experiencing a strong period, consolidated after securing their qualification for the quarterfinals. Domestically, the team has strung together three consecutive victories in the Campeonato Brasileiro (Brazilian Serie A).
The club has defeated Botafogo, Mirassol, and Remo. This strong performance has culminated in them recently taking the lead in the league, demonstrating the strength and consistency of the squad coached by Tite.
Maintaining this momentum is crucial for the club’s aspirations in the Libertadores.
Head-to-Head History
The historical record between Flamengo and Independiente del Valle shows six encounters, with a slight edge to the Rio de Janeiro club. Flamengo, also known as Mengão, has secured three wins, compared to two triumphs for the Ecuadorian team and one draw.
The goal difference also favors Flamengo, with 10 goals scored and eight conceded. In the Libertadores, the clubs met twice in the group stage of the 2020 tournament.
On that occasion, there was one win for each side: Del Valle secured a 5-0 victory in Quito, while Flamengo responded with a commanding 4-0 win at the Maracanã.
Performance Against Ecuadorian Teams
Flamengo, from the Gávea neighborhood, boasts a widely positive track record against Ecuadorian teams in the history of the Libertadores. In 22 matches played, Flamengo has achieved 15 victories.
The club has drawn twice and suffered only five defeats. This record translates to a prolific attack, with 43 goals scored, and a relatively solid defense, which has conceded 23 goals.
Officiating Team
The match will be officiated by an all-Argentine crew, with Facundo Tello serving as the head referee. He will be assisted by Cristian Navarro and Gabriel Chade on the lines.
The video assistant referee (VAR) system will be overseen by Silvio Truco, ensuring fairness and accuracy in the decisions on the field.
The confrontation against Independiente del Valle represents another challenging step in Flamengo‘s journey in the Libertadores. The team needs to overcome not only a qualified opponent.
The squad aims to demonstrate resilience and focus. The result in Quito will be fundamental for the strategy in the return leg at the Maracanã, where the Rubro-Negra fanbase hopes to celebrate another step towards continental glory.
By Equipe M360
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