With Pedro’s Setup, Arrascaeta Scores ‘Law of the Ex’ for Flamengo in Libertadores

By:Paulo PiresLibertadores EN20/08/2026at 07:02

Flamengo advances in the Libertadores with Arrascaeta’s goal against Cruzeiro, solidifying the red-and-black’s advantage in the aggregate score.

The Copa Libertadores witnessed a decisive moment at the Maracanã, where Flamengo secured a significant advantage in their Round of 16 clash. The encounter against Cruzeiro took on a special dimension with the performance of midfielder Giorgian de Arrascaeta, who, in a well-executed play, opened the scoring for the Rio de Janeiro team, solidifying their position in the continental tournament.

The goal, which raised the aggregate score to 2-1 in favor of the Rio de Janeiro club, not only boosted Flamengo’s morale but also held a special significance for Arrascaeta, who played for Cruzeiro before joining Flamengo. The match, marked by the typical intensity of a knockout fixture, saw its turning point in the first half.

Arrascaeta and Pedro: A Crucial Synergy

In the 35th minute of the first half, the crowd at the Maracanã witnessed the build-up to the goal that would change the match’s dynamic. Arrascaeta demonstrated his characteristic acceleration, dribbling from midfield and finding center forward Pedro in an excellent position inside the penalty box. The play, executed with precision, revealed the chemistry between the two players.

Pedro, with his usual tactical intelligence, showed composure and vision by delivering a first-touch pass, without even controlling it, to the number 10. This surgical assist allowed Arrascaeta to finish with mastery, executing what is popularly known as the ‘law of the ex’ by finding the back of the net against his former team.

Impact on Flamengo’s Libertadores Campaign

Arrascaeta’s goal was not just an isolated moment; it represented a fundamental step in Flamengo’s Libertadores campaign. By taking the lead in a Round of 16 second leg, the Rio de Janeiro team managed to control the pace of the game and impose its strategy. Victory in this clash reinforces the club’s ambition to advance in the competition and aim for the title.

The players’ performance, especially the partnership between Arrascaeta and Pedro, will be crucial in Flamengo’s upcoming challenges. Advancing to the quarterfinals sets up new high-level confrontations and necessitates maintaining the same intensity demonstrated at the Maracanã. The expectation is that the team will maintain its focus in pursuit of continental glory.

M360 Team