Flamengo Beats Independiente del Valle 2-0 in Quito

Overview

• Flamengo won the Copa Libertadores quarterfinal first leg 2-0 in Quito on Thursday, Sept 10, with Bruno Henrique and Léo Pereira scoring both goals in the second half.
• Independiente del Valle dominated the first half with roughly 68% possession and ten attempts but hit the post and lost striker Charli González to a leg problem at halftime.
• Coach Leonardo Jardim said Flamengo changed its approach after the break, increasing possession and efficiency, and he started Emerson Royal because his physical and aerial profile suited play at 2,850 meters.
• The result gives Flamengo a clear aggregate edge for the Sept 17 return leg at the Maracanã since a draw or a one-goal loss will send the Rio club through while Del Valle needs a two-goal win to force penalties or a three-goal win to advance outright.
• Jardim warned the squad is physically worn from altitude and travel and confirmed he will manage minutes and rotate players during a tight schedule that includes a Brasileirão match against Corinthians this Sunday.