Velez (Argentina) vs Flamengo (Brazil)
Velez Sarsfield are into the Copa Libertadores’ semi-finals for the first time since 2011 thanks to their 1-0 away success at Talleres thanks to a strike from Julian Fernandez in the second half (4-2 on aggregate). However, it all changes when it comes to the league: last Sunday, El Fortin managed an important 1-1 away draw at Independiente, but they remain occupying the penultimate spot in the Liga Profesional table on 12 points, only one behind bottom-placed Lanus, after 16 rounds. Overall, Alexander Medina’s men are on four matches without a win, drawing three and losing one. At home, Velez won only one of the last six, along with four draws and one defeat.
Meanwhile, Flamengo are back among the Copa Libertadores top four after beating Corinthians SC 1-0 at home and making it 3-0 on aggregate. Last Sunday, the team also beat Botafogo 1-0 away from home to continue occupying second spot in the Brazilian league table on 43 points, seven behind leaders Palmeiras. O Rubro-Negro hold an impressive 14-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, winning 12 and drawing two. On away turf, Flamengo managed six victories and one draw across their last seven matches since losing to Corinthians 1-0 away in early July in the Brasileirao.
I have no idea how is this very poor Velez going to hold a very strong Flamengo that definitely deserves to be in the final.