The Uruguayan star Giorgian De Arrascaeta scored twice to give Flamengo, reigning Copa Libertadores champions, a 2–1 win over Cruz Azul in the Intercontinental Cup.
Playing in Qatar, De Arrascaeta delivered for the South American giants, while Jorge Sánchez provided the lone goal for the Mexican side in this highly anticipated Derby of the Americas.

The match opened with a battle for control in midfield, with neither side generating danger early. Cruz Azul attempted to attack down the wings, but Flamengo held their defensive structure well.

In the 14th minute, Argentine defender Gonzalo Piovi committed a costly mistake, gifting the ball to De Arrascaeta, who calmly finished to put Flamengo ahead 1–0.

The Mexicans took several minutes to recover, and at the 24' mark Bruno Henrique nearly doubled the lead with a threatening run into the box.
Cruz Azul eventually took control of possession in search of the equalizer. In the 42nd minute, Uruguayan forward Gabriel Fernández found the net, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Just two minutes later, Carlos Rodríguez assisted Jorge Sánchez, who fired a right-footed shot from outside the box into the top corner to level the match 1–1.

Flamengo Regain Control in the Second Half

The second half began with both teams pushing forward, though neither generated shots on target until the 69th minute, when Ecuadorian winger Gonzalo Plata came close to restoring Flamengo’s lead with a long-range effort.

Flamengo kept pressing, and two minutes later regained the advantage thanks to a left-footed strike from Giorgian De Arrascaeta, completing his brace in style.

The Brazilian side created two more dangerous chances late in the match but lacked accuracy in the final touch. Still, they maintained defensive discipline and protected the lead, eliminating the Concacaf champions, who closed the match with three forwards in an all-out attacking push.

Next Challenge: Pyramids FC and the Road to PSG

Flamengo, led by head coach Filipe Luís, will now face Egyptian side Pyramids FC on Saturday. The winner will advance to battle Paris Saint-Germain, champions of the UEFA Champions League, for the Intercontinental Cup title.