Flamengo and Estudiantes Meet in Copa Libertadores Semifinals

Flamengo and Estudiantes de La Plata will face each other this Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 9:30 PM local time in the second leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinals. The decisive match will take place at the Jornalista Mário Filho stadium, commonly known as the Maracanã, in Rio de Janeiro.

The series remains completely open following a 0-0 draw in the first leg played on October 15 in La Plata. Despite Estudiantes generating clear scoring opportunities near the end of that match, a lack of clinical finishing left the score tied, meaning any victory in Brazil will secure the winner a spot in the final on November 28 in Montevideo.

Estudiantes received a major boost ahead of the clash with the official clearance of defender Marcos Rojo. After missing the first leg due to a regulatory issue stemming from his transfer from Racing, a ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport favored the Argentine club, allowing him to travel to Brazil. The team also recovers previously suspended defenders Tomás Palacios and Leandro González Pirez.

Led by manager Alexander Medina, the visiting squad prepares to face a Flamengo side under Portuguese coach Leonardo Jardim. While maintaining a tight race at the top of the Brasileirao alongside Palmeiras, the Rio de Janeiro club places its primary focus on capturing its fifth continental crown, having previously triumphed in 1981, 2019, 2022, and 2025.

The Brazilian team enters the match relying on the backing of its home supporters and key players such as goalkeeper Agustín Rossi, Lucas Paquetá, Bruno Henrique, and Pedro. Additionally, Jorginho returns to the lineup after serving a suspension during the first leg, as the team targets its fifth final appearance in the tournament over the last eight years.

In Argentina, viewers can watch the broadcast through Disney+, Telefé, and FOX Sports, while Disney+ and ESPN cover the rest of South America. In the United States, the match is available via beIN Sports on Fubo.

Historically, Flamengo holds a positive head-to-head record against Estudiantes in recent meetings. Their previous encounters include a 0-0 draw on October 15, 2026, a 1-0 victory for Flamengo on May 20, 2026, a 1-1 draw on April 29, 2026, and victories for the Brazilian side on September 25 and September 18, 2025.