Lima, Peru — Flamengo claimed their fourth Copa Libertadores title on Saturday night, defeating Palmeiras 1–0 in a tense all-Brazilian final that lived up to its billing as the “final of the century.” The victory makes Flamengo the first Brazilian club to win the tournament four times, further cementing their status as a continental powerhouse.
Danilo Delivers the Decisive Moment
The breakthrough came in the 67th minute when Danilo, the former Real Madrid defender, rose highest to head home the winner. In a final defined more by discipline than spectacle, his goal proved the difference in a match where neither side was willing to take major risks.
Palmeiras nearly forced extra time in the 88th minute when striker Vitor Roque found himself unmarked inside the box—but he fired over from point-blank range, leaving Verdão fans in disbelief.
A Cagey Final Short on Flair
Despite the enormous global anticipation, the showdown at Lima’s Monumental Stadium offered few flashes of the attacking brilliance associated with South American football. Both teams opted for caution, fully aware that a single mistake—or moment of brilliance—could determine the outcome.
For Flamengo, the win carries extra emotional weight: it serves as revenge for their 2021 defeat to Palmeiras, when a late mistake cost them the title. The result also underscores Brazilian dominance on the continent—Brazilian clubs have now won five of the last seven Libertadores titles, with Flamengo and Palmeiras leading the charge.
Lima: A Happy Hunting Ground for Flamengo
The Peruvian capital has once again proven a charm for Flamengo. It was in Lima in 2019 that they staged their dramatic comeback against River Plate—two late goals from Gabigol securing their first Libertadores crown since 1981 and launching a new era of success under Jorge Jesus.
Now, six years later, Lima has delivered them another golden chapter.
Financial Rewards and Global Opportunities
As champions, Flamengo will pocket $24 million, bringing their total earnings from the tournament to 178 million Brazilian reais ($27.6 million).
Their continental triumph also secures:
-A spot in the Intercontinental Cup, where they will face Mexico’s Cruz Azul in the quarterfinals.
-The winner will advance to meet Egypt’s Pyramids FC in the semifinals.
-Paris Saint-Germain, the European champions, await in the final.
-A guaranteed place in the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.
Earlier this year, during the inaugural expanded 32-team Club World Cup, Flamengo notably defeated Chelsea in the group stage but were eventually eliminated by Bayern Munich in the second round.
A New Milestone in Flamengo’s Era of Dominance
With another Libertadores trophy added to their cabinet, Flamengo’s modern resurgence shows no signs of slowing. The victory not only reinforces their stature in South America but also sets the stage for another run on the world stage—where bigger challenges, and bigger opportunities, await.
By Prince Tuffuor
