Flamengo and Independiente del Valle Battle for a Spot in the Libertadores Quarterfinals; All You Need to Know
Flamengo takes the field this Thursday (10) for the first leg of their Copa Libertadores quarterfinal clash against Independiente del Valle (ECU). The match, taking place at Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa in Quito, Ecuador, kicks off at 9:30 PM (Brasília time), promising an electrifying encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the tournament’s semifinals.
Absences and News for Rubro-Negro
For the decisive confrontation, head coach Leonardo Jardim will be without two key players: Alex Sandro, who is recovering from calf pain, and Evertton Araújo, who is under medical care. Additionally, Everton Cebolinha is no longer part of the Rubro-Negro squad, as his contract was terminated for him to sign with Santos. Lorran will also be unavailable, released to reinforce the U-20 team.
Independiente del Valle at Full Strength
On the Ecuadorian side, head coach Joaquín Papa will have his full squad available. Only Jean Arroyo and Cazares are out of the match, but the team is confident in leveraging their home advantage.
How to Watch
The match will be broadcast by ESPN on cable and through the Disney+ streaming service. The Coluna do Fla portal, as usual, will be on-site covering all the details with reporters Rodrigo Lima, Rock Hudson, and Simon Lédo.
Match Details: Independiente del Valle vs. Flamengo
- Venue: Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa, Quito (Ecuador)
- Competition: Copa Libertadores, Quarterfinals, First Leg
- Date: September 10, 2026, Thursday
- Kick-off: 9:30 PM (Brasília Time)
- Broadcast: ESPN and Disney+
Probable Lineups:
- Independiente del Valle: Aldair Quintana; Daykol Romero, Carabajal, Schunke, Layan Loor; Alcivar, Hugo Quintana, Sornoza; Arón Rodríguez, Emerson Pata, and Carlos González.
* Head Coach: Joaquín Papa. - Flamengo: Rossi; Emerson Royal, Léo Pereira, Léo Ortiz, Ayrton Lucas; Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta; Carrascal, Samuel Lino, and Pedro (Bruno Henrique).
* Head Coach: Leonardo Jardim.
The Return Leg
The decisive return leg is scheduled for September 17, at the Maracanã, also at 9:30 PM (Brasília time). The current Copa Libertadores champion, Flamengo, will aim to overturn any result from the first leg to advance in the competition.
Equipe M360
