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Flamengo will look to secure a place in the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 against Estudiantes de La Plata in what promises to be a packed Maracanã. The defending champions arrive full of confidence after four of their players were called up to Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.

The reigning Copa Libertadores champions, Flamengo, will have a huge opportunity this Wednesday to book their place in the Round of 16 when they host Estudiantes de La Plata at the Maracanã Stadium. The Brazilian giants are enjoying an important stretch of the season and arrive boosted after Carlo Ancelotti included four Flamengo players in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Full-backs Danilo and Alex Sandro, defender Léo Pereira, and midfielder Lucas Paquetá were all selected for the Selecao, adding even more confidence inside the Flamengo dressing room.

Managed by Tite, Flamengo currently lead Group A with seven points, and a victory against the Argentine side would guarantee qualification to the next round with one matchday to spare. Depending on the result between Independiente Medellín and Cusco, the Brazilian club could also clinch the top spot in the group.

Flamengo Looking to Regain Momentum at Home

Despite their strong Libertadores campaign and solid position near the top of the Brasileirao standings, Flamengo are still trying to recover emotionally from their recent elimination in the Copa do Brasil.

However, playing at the Maracanã remains a major advantage for the Rio de Janeiro side. In the reverse fixture in Argentina, both teams played out a 1-1 draw, while last season Flamengo knocked out Estudiantes in a dramatic quarterfinal decided by penalties.

The Brazilian attack is expected to once again feature Pedro, alongside Colombian winger Jorge Carrascal, as well as Samuel Lino and Evertton Araújo.

Estudiantes Arrive Needing a Result

Meanwhile, Estudiantes de La Plata travel to Rio de Janeiro needing at least a draw to avoid putting their qualification hopes at risk. The Argentine side currently sits second in the group with six points, and a defeat could leave them depending on other results heading into the final matchday.

Led by Alexander Medina, Estudiantes will rely on the experience of goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and the talent of Tomás Palacios in hopes of pulling off a surprise against the defending champions in Brazil.

Wednesday, May 20
LIVE from 8:20 PM ET / 5:20 PM PT on beIN SPORTS
Flamengo vs Estudiantes de La Plata

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