Fluminense lived up to expectations and convincingly defeated América de Cali 2-0 at the Maracanã Stadium, sealing their qualification for the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals. The goals came from Colombian winger Kevin Serna in the 22nd minute and Matheus Martinelli in the 55th, in a match where Renato Gaúcho’s side was clearly superior.

With this result, the Brazilian club confirmed the advantage they had earned in the first leg at the Pascual Guerrero Stadium, where they won 2-1. That gave Fluminense a 4-1 aggregate score, setting up a quarterfinal clash against the winner of the series between Argentine sides Central Córdoba and Lanús.

Brazilian Control From Start to Finish

From the opening whistle, Fluminense asserted their dominance with several dangerous chances. The attack led by Serna, Uruguayan Agustín Canobbio, Martinelli, and Everaldo kept the Colombian defense under constant pressure. The first goal came after an assist from Hércules, allowing Serna to finish clinically past goalkeeper Jorge Soto.

The Brazilian side also displayed defensive solidity, neutralizing the counterattacks of América de Cali, who only threatened goalkeeper Fábio on a couple of occasions, including a shot from Barrios that was well saved.