Click here to watch the Flamengo vs Racing match LIVE

Flamengo vs Racing Club: Maracanã Prepares for a New Chapter in the Brazil–Argentina Rivalry in the 2025 Copa Libertadores

The historic Brazil vs Argentina football rivalry will have a new chapter this Wednesday in Rio de Janeiro, as Flamengo hosts Racing Club in the first leg of the 2025 Copa Libertadores semifinals, with Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Pedro as the key figures for the Brazilian side.

Flamengo arrives in high spirits after a 3-2 victory over Palmeiras on Sunday in the Brasileirão, a result that keeps them at the top of the league standings. The team, coached by Filipe Luis, relies on De Arrascaeta, the tournament’s top scorer, and Pedro, who has regained top form at this decisive stage of the season.

The win against Palmeiras, considered an early final of the Brasileirão, boosted Flamengo’s confidence ahead of their clash against Racing Club at the iconic Maracanã Stadium. The Brazilian side will aim to secure a significant advantage in the first leg before traveling to Avellaneda next week for the return leg that will decide the finalist.

Flamengo reached the semifinals after eliminating Estudiantes de La Plata in a penalty shootout, while Racing Club advanced by defeating Vélez Sarsfield with a 2-0 aggregate score.

Flamengo Faces Key Absences Against Racing Club

The Carioca side will be missing two important players. Everton “Cebolinha” will be sidelined for at least two more weeks due to an abdominal and hip injury, and Léo Ortiz will miss the match due to an ankle issue.

In their place, Filipe Luis is expected to start Danilo in defense and strengthen the attack with Luiz Araújo and Samuel Lino, while Spanish midfielder Saúl Ñíguez remains doubtful due to injury.

Racing Club Seeks to Break Brazilian Dominance

On the other side, Racing Club aims to end the Brazilian dominance in the Copa Libertadores, which has lasted since 2019. The Argentine side, led by Gustavo Costas, hopes to claim their second continental title—the first since 1967—and will rely on Adrián Martínez, their top scorer, to lead the offense.

However, La Academia faces multiple absences: Alan Forneris and Elías Torres are out due to knee injuries, while Franco Pardo is sidelined with muscle problems. Additionally, Santiago Sosa, Facundo Mura, and Gabriel Arias are doubts.

The Flamengo vs Racing Club clash promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Maracanã, where the Brazilians aim to reaffirm their continental dominance and the Argentines dream of writing a new chapter of glory in the 2025 Copa Libertadores.