Racing vs Flamengo: Prediction, Team News, Lineups Revealed
As the Copa Libertadores semi-final approaches, Racing Club faces a challenging task against Flamengo. With the second leg scheduled for October 30, Flamengo holds a narrow 1-0 lead from the first match. Racing Club aims to capitalize on their home advantage at Estadio Juan Domingo Peron, striving to end a lengthy 58-year wait for the trophy.
Match Preview
In their last outing, Racing Club suffered their first defeat after an unbeaten streak of three matches. Under coach Gustavo Costas, the team must aim for at least one goal to keep their hopes alive.
Last week, Racing dominated much of the match until the 88th minute when they conceded a devastating own goal by Marcos Rojo. This semi-final marks Racing’s first appearance at this stage since 1997, fueling their determination against Flamengo.
On the other hand, Flamengo, a three-time Copa Libertadores champion, knows that a clean sheet or a draw will see them progress to the final. They hope to secure their third final appearance in five years and pursue their fourth title overall. However, their recent domestic match ended in a setback, with Flamengo losing 1-0 to Fortaleza.
Team Form Comparisons
- Racing Club Copa Libertadores: LWWWL
- Racing Club Overall: DLDWWL
- Flamengo Copa Libertadores: WWWWW
- Flamengo Overall: DLWWWL
Team News
Racing Club faces some injury concerns with players Alan Forneris, Franco Pardo, and Elias Torres sidelined. Despite this, coach Costas can rely on a strong squad. Striker Adrian Martinez, the competition’s top scorer with seven goals, is crucial for the team’s hopes.
Flamengo, meanwhile, will be without key players, including striker Pedro, who is out with a broken hand. Additionally, Everton, Leo Ortiz, and Nicolas de la Cruz are also ruled out due to injuries and illness. Giorgian de Arrascaeta remains a vital attacking option, having made a significant impact in the first leg.
Projected Lineups
| Racing Club | Flamengo |
|---|---|
| Cambeses | Rossi |
| Torres | Emerson Royal |
| Colombo | Danilo |
| Garcia | Pereira |
| Rojo | Sandro |
| Solari | Jorginho |
| Zuculini | Pulgar |
| Almendra | De Arrascaeta |
| Rojas | Araujo |
| Conechny | Lino |
| Martinez | Henrique |
Predictions
The upcoming clash is expected to be intense. Racing Club needs to secure a win to hope for penalties or advance further in the tournament. Meanwhile, Flamengo’s experience and tactics will be crucial to maintaining their aggregate lead.
Our prediction: Racing Club 1 – 1 Flamengo (Flamengo wins 2-1 on aggregate).
