Rio de Janeiro offered another reminder of how Argentine clubs can make themselves at home in South America’s grandest stadiums. Estudiantes left the Maracanã with a place in the Copa Libertadores final after overcoming Flamengo in a penalty shoot-out, turning a difficult Brazilian night into a celebration for the travelling side known as El Pincha.
The result follows Boca Juniors’ victory days earlier, adding another Argentine success to a continental week shaped by knockout pressure, long journeys and decisive moments from the spot. Estudiantes’ players celebrated in the Maracanã after completing their route past Flamengo, with the Libertadores final now awaiting them.
From La Plata to the Maracanã
For Estudiantes, the win carries the particular weight of defeating one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs in its own city. Flamengo had the setting, the crowd and the familiar scale of the Maracanã behind them, but the tie ultimately went to penalties, where Estudiantes secured the outcome.
It is a result that places the La Plata club among the final contenders for South America’s leading club prize, while also extending a strong sequence for Argentine teams in the competition. Boca had already delivered a win earlier in the week; Estudiantes ensured that the Argentine presence would continue into the final.
