Flamengo (Brazil) vs Velez (Argentina)
Flamengo played in perfect style at Velez Sarsfield last Wednesday and managed an easy 4-0 away success to take a big step towards the Copa Libertadores’ final. On Sunday, coach Dorival Junior fielded an alternative XI and his team registered a 1-1 home draw against Ceara SC, which places them second in the Brazilian league table on 44 points, seven behind leaders Palmeiras. O Rubro Negro are on 16 competitive matches unbeaten, winning 13 and drawing three. At home, Flamengo haven’t lost any of the last 11 (nine successes and two stalemates since losing to Fortaleza EC 2-1 in June).
Velez Sarsfield will find it tough in the return leg after succumbing to a devastating 4-0 home defeat to Flamengo last Wednesday. On Saturday, they also lost 1-0 to Newell’s Old Boys (at home too) to make it six winless matches in all competitions (three draws and three defeats). El Fortin remain occupying the penultimate spot of the Liga Profesional, accumulating 12 points after 17 games (only one above bottom-placed Lanus). Velez won only one of their last 11 away games, drawing six and losing four.
Even if this series is decided, Velez should try to get something for their honor, and I can imagine them leaving more than a few open spaces for Flamengo to have fun with them again like last week.