The Copa Libertadores Round of 16 kicks off with an intriguing matchup as Brazilian giants Flamengo host Bolivian champions Bolívar at the iconic Maracanã stadium. This first leg clash promises to be a fascinating encounter between two sides with contrasting styles and ambitions in South America’s premier club competition.
Match Details
Competition: Copa Libertadores, Round of 16, First Leg
Date: August 16, 2024
Kickoff: 00:30 UTC
Venue: Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Projected Lineups and Formation
Flamengo (4-2-3-1): Rossi; França, Bruno, Pereira, Lucas; Pulgar, De la Cruz; Gerson, De Arrascaeta, Araújo; Pedro
Manager Tite is likely to stick with his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, utilizing the creative talents of Gerson and De Arrascaeta to supply chances for striker Pedro. The experienced backline will aim to provide a solid foundation against Bolívar’s attack.
Bolívar (4-2-3-1): Lampe; J. Sagredo, Orihuela, J. Sagredo, Fernández; Justiniano, Vaca; Rodríguez, Vaca, Sávio; Oviedo
Flavio Robatto’s side is expected to mirror Flamengo’s formation, with Bruno Sávio playing a key role in supporting lone striker Alfio Oviedo. The midfield duo of Justiniano and Vaca will be crucial in trying to control the tempo of the game.
Match Preview
Flamengo enter this tie as strong favorites, but their recent form has been somewhat inconsistent. The Brazilian side have gone three matches without a win, including a disappointing 1-0 loss to São Paulo in their last league outing. However, their home record in the Copa Libertadores group stage was impeccable, with three wins and no goals conceded.
Bolívar, on the other hand, come into this match in good spirits after a string of positive results. The Bolivian champions have won three consecutive matches across all competitions and will be eager to prove themselves against one of South America’s most storied clubs.
The key battle could be in midfield, where Flamengo’s technically gifted players like Gerson and De Arrascaeta will look to dominate possession and create chances. Bolívar’s defensive organization and ability to counter-attack effectively will be crucial if they hope to get a positive result away from home.
Injury News
Flamengo will be without right-back Guillermo Varela due to a hip issue, while forward Everton remains sidelined with an Achilles problem. These absences may force some tactical adjustments from manager Tite.
Bolívar have no reported injury concerns heading into this crucial first leg, giving coach Flavio Robatto a full squad to choose from.
Where to Watch
Fans in the United States can catch the action live on several platforms:
- Fanatiz
- fuboTV
- beIN SPORTS CONNECT
- beIN SPORTS XTRA
- Tubi
International viewers should check their local listings, as the match will be broadcast in numerous countries worldwide.
Who Will Win?
While Flamengo are clear favorites playing at home, their recent form suggests this may not be a straightforward victory. The Brazilian side’s attacking talent should prove too much for Bolívar’s defense over 90 minutes, but the visitors will be determined to keep the tie alive for the second leg.
Prediction: Flamengo 2-0 Bolívar
Flamengo’s superior quality and home advantage should see them secure a comfortable win, but Bolívar are likely to put up a stern resistance.
Key Stats and Data
- Flamengo have won all three of their home matches in this season’s Copa Libertadores without conceding a goal
- Bolívar finished top of their group, ahead of Flamengo, in the group stage
- The two sides have already met twice in this year’s competition, with each team winning their home fixture
Recent Form
Flamengo: D-L-L-W-W
Bolívar: W-W-W-D-L
Flamengo’s recent dip in form will be a concern for their supporters, while Bolívar’s winning streak gives them reason for optimism.
Head-to-Head
In their two group stage meetings:
- Flamengo 4-0 Bolívar (May 16, 2024)
- Bolívar 2-1 Flamengo (April 25, 2024)
These results highlight the importance of home advantage in this fixture, a factor that could play a significant role in the upcoming match.
Current Standings
As this is a knockout tie, league standings are less relevant. However, it’s worth noting that Flamengo currently sit 3rd in the Brazilian Série A, while Bolívar are top of the Bolivian Primera División.
Latest News
The buildup to this match has been relatively quiet, with both teams focusing on their preparations. Flamengo will be eager to put their recent disappointing results behind them and make a statement in this competition. Bolívar, meanwhile, will be looking to prove that their group stage performance was no fluke and that they can compete with South America’s elite clubs.
As the teams make their final preparations, all eyes will be on the Maracanã for what promises to be an enthralling Copa Libertadores encounter.
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