Flamengo hold out Estudiantes for goalless draw in Copa Libertadores semi-final first leg

Flamengo frustrate Estudiantes in goalless first leg

Flamengo, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, drew 0-0 at Estudiantes in the first leg of their semi-final, a resilient defensive display that leaves them well placed to reach back-to-back Copa Libertadores finals.

At Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi, Estudiantes created chances worth 1.09 expected goals, significantly higher than Flamengo's 0.16. The four-time Copa Libertadores champions were content to sit deep and frustrate their hosts, and they came away without conceding.

Estudiantes dominate but lack a finish

Estudiantes had 21 attempts in total, with six of them on target, but they could not turn their dominance into a goal. Baltasar Rodriguez went close early on, and Leo Pereira made a vital clearance to deny Tiago Palacios. The unmarked Guido Carrillo failed to beat Agustin Rossi with a header, while Alex Sandro made another goal-saving block for the visitors.

Estudiantes were also frustrated that Lucas Paqueta was not sent off after striking Ezequiel Piovi in the face.

Flamengo's cautious approach pays off

Flamengo were hardly adventurous and ended the match with just five shots, none on target. However, they avoided any damage ahead of the second leg.

Flamengo coach Leonardo Jardim blamed the officiating for the difficulty in the game: "There was a lot of contact. The referee allowed grabbing and hitting. For us, who like to have the ball, it was difficult.

"But we already knew that, what the opponent intended to do. I think the players, at least in their commitment, attitude, and duels, made their presence felt.

"Now, for sure, we'll think about the return match at the Maracana, with the support of our fans."

What comes next

Estudiantes, also four-time champions, are the only non-Brazilian club in this year's semi-finals. They will need an away win at the Maracana to reach their first Copa Libertadores final since 2019.

Estudiantes have lost just two of their 32 home matches in Copa Libertadores knockout stages (W23 D7 L2), with defeats to Athletico Paranaense in 2022 and Barcelona in 1971. The two clubs have now met 13 times in CONMEBOL competitions: Flamengo have five wins, Estudiantes two, and there have been six draws.