Flamengo did their job by beating Bolívar 2-0 at home, although the Copa Libertadores round of 16 tie is still open for the return match next week at altitude in La Paz. For its part, São Paulo took a valuable draw from Montevideo against Nacional and will decide its qualification at home.
Tite’s team had beaten the Bolivian team 4-0 at the Maracaná in the group stage, but this time they were not as decisive. The opening goal came after half an hour of play thanks to a great collective combination: Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Pedro built the attack to set up Luiz Araújo who, one on one with goalkeeper Lampe, finished at the near post to send the ball into the goal.
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Pedro, Fla’s great striker, left the field injured before the end of the first half and Gabigol came on in his place. His absence was noticeable and, despite the dominance, the biggest difference in the score came at the end with a corner kick taken by Luis Araújo and a header by Léo Pereira.
🔥🔴⚫ Pedro's perfect pass led to Luiz Araújo's opener for @Flamengo_en! #GloriaEterna | #FLAxBOL pic.twitter.com/0NW6dPYvx4
— CONMEBOL Libertadores (@TheLibertadores) August 16, 2024
Disappointing draw in Uruguay
Nacional and São Paulo did not provide the expected match. Both have three Libertadores each in their showcase, but it was a disappointing clash that ended goalless, in a draw that gives hope to the Brazilians as the tie is decided at Morumbi.
It was one of the most anticipated duels of this phase of the Libertadores, as it pitted two three-time champions of the tournament against each other. But it was more fought than played.
🇺🇾🤜🤛🇧🇷 Nothing to separate the sides in Montevideo! #GloriaEterna | #NACxSAO pic.twitter.com/wgzTJrVOe8
— CONMEBOL Libertadores (@TheLibertadores) August 15, 2024
At the Gran Parque Central stadium, with the support of its fans, Nacional had the best opportunities, although without hurting the rival. Those led by Luis Zubeldía had more possession, although without trying to find the opposing goal in depth.
Copa Sudamericana: Cruzeiro fell to Boca and Athletico Paranaense turned it around
In the Copa Sudamericana, the most attractive duel in the round of 16 is the one between Boca Juniors and Cruzeiro. The Argentines won 1-0 at La Bombonera with a goal from Edinson Cavani and the pass to the quarterfinals will be decided next week in Belo Horizonte.
📽️🎯 A clinical finish from Edinson Cavani to give @BocaJrsOficial the upper hand. 🔵🟡 pic.twitter.com/4yVLcoTzIC
— CONMEBOL Sudamericana (@TheSudamericana) August 16, 2024
Athletico Paranaense took the lead in the qualifying round by beating Belgrano (Argentina) 2-1 at home. They started down one minute into the match and turned it around with goals from Erick and Christian.
