Two historic South American clubs meet in Group A, with Flamengo RJ hosting Estudiantes LP at the Maracanã. Both sides have drawn half their matches in the last month, underlining their resilience and defensive solidity. Flamengo’s creativity centers around Bruno Henrique, who notched three assists in five matches, while Estudiantes depend on Guido Carrillo’s presence up front—two goals in the last six matches. The goalkeepers, Agustín Rossi for Flamengo and veteran Fernando Muslera for Estudiantes, both bring consistency, with Muslera recording 19 saves in five games.
Hot stat: Flamengo RJ completed a remarkable 3,056 passes in their last five outings, highlighting their control and technical superiority.
| 🏆 Tournament: | Copa Libertadores 2026, Group A |
| 🏟 Venue: | Estádio do Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro |
| 🗓️ Date: | 21.05.2026 |
| ⏰ Time: | 02:30 CEST |
Flamengo RJ vs Estudiantes LP prediction
We predict Flamengo RJ to win. The Brazilian side dominates possession, averages a higher pass completion rate (86%), and takes slightly more shots per game. Estudiantes LP struggle to assert themselves away from home, while Flamengo’s attacking variety gives them an edge. Both teams have disciplined defenses, but Flamengo’s superior technical ability and home advantage point to a home win as the best value pick.
Both teams display physical styles. Flamengo accumulated 12 yellows and 62 fouls over five matches, while Estudiantes picked up 17 yellows and committed 56 fouls. Expect stoppages and a battle in midfield. Flamengo’s higher passing numbers and possession should force Estudiantes to defend deep, possibly inviting cards and fouls as they try to disrupt Flamengo’s rhythm.
| 🔥Hot Tip: | Under 2.5 goals |
| ⚽Total Goals: | 2 or fewer |
| 💥Both Teams To Score: | No |
| 🎯Total Corners: | Over 8.5 |
Team Analysis
Flamengo RJ’s last match ended 1-1 against Athletico PR. The team struggled to convert dominance into goals, despite 86 shots in their last five matches and a commanding possession rate. Defensive stability remains, conceding only six goals across that span. Their creative midfield failed to break down a compact opponent, but the team’s overall solidity and home record suggest they remain favorites.
Estudiantes LP drew 0-1 against Racing Club in their last outing. The Argentinian side found it difficult to penetrate Racing’s disciplined backline, failing to score despite creating several chances. In their five previous matches, Estudiantes have been steady but uninspiring in attack, with only five goals scored. Defensive structure has improved, keeping the opposition to low shot counts, but the lack of firepower limits their upside in Rio.
Most recent Head-to-Head Matches
| Statistic | Flamengo RJ | Estudiantes LP |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 6 | 5 |
| Total shots | 86 | 83 |
| Free kicks | 2 | 2 |
| Corner kicks | 30 | 32 |
| Total fouls | 62 | 56 |
| Pass accuracy (%) | 86% | 80% |
| Interceptions | 46 | 45 |
| Offsides | 2 | 11 |
🚨Check out our dedicated Flamengo RJ vs Estudiantes LP stats page for more info.
Pre-game odds and win probability: Flamengo RJ the favourite
- Moneyline Flamengo RJ 1.44 | Estudiantes LP 8.50
- Draw 4.20
- Over/Under Over 2.5 1.75 | Under 2.5 2.05
- BTTS (both teams to score) Yes 2.10 | No 1.66
Bookmakers clearly position Flamengo RJ as favorites, which matches our statistical model and punters’ assessment. Odds for a home win remain short due to Flamengo’s technical edge, form, and home advantage. The draw remains possible given both teams’ tendency for low-scoring affairs, but Estudiantes’ high odds reflect their underdog status, especially away from home. Over/Under and BTTS lines hint at a game with few clear-cut chances, aligning with both teams’ recent goal output and defensive strengths.

Estudiantes LP. Source: Official Facebook
Possible Starting Lineups
Flamengo RJ possible starting eleven
- GK: Agustín Rossi
- DF: Emerson Royal, Alex Sandro, Léo Pereira, Ayrton Lucas
- MF: Evertton Araújo, Jorginho, Danilo Luiz da Silva, Giorgian de Arrascaeta
- FW: Pedro, Bruno Henrique
Expect Flamengo to use their standard 4-2-3-1, maximizing midfield control. Rossi anchors the defense, while Emerson Royal and Alex Sandro provide stability and passing from the back. Jorginho and Araújo maintain possession and tempo. Pedro leads the line as the main threat, supported by the creative Bruno Henrique and Arrascaeta. The setup leverages Flamengo’s passing superiority and tactical discipline, with Bruno Henrique the player to watch for his ability to unlock tight defenses.
Estudiantes LP possible starting eleven

- GK: Fernando Muslera
- DF: Eros Nazareno Mancuso, Ramiro Funes Mori, Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, Gastón Benedetti
- MF: Gabriel Neves, Lucas Piovi, Alexis Castro, Mikel Jesús Amondarain
- FW: Guido Carrillo, Edwuin Cetre
Estudiantes typically line up in a 4-2-3-1, aiming for defensive stability. Muslera’s experience is pivotal in goal, while Funes Mori and Gonzalez Pirez anchor the backline. The midfielders focus on breaking up play and supporting Carrillo, who remains the main attacking outlet. Cetre’s pace offers a direct option. Expect a disciplined approach, heavy on tackles and fouls, with Carrillo the key for any counterattacking opportunity.
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Flamengo RJ. Source: Official Facebook
TipsGG Match Prediction
We predict a tactical contest defined by Flamengo’s superior technical ability and home advantage. Estudiantes LP will try to frustrate and hit on the break, but their lack of attacking depth away from home limits their chances. The stats point toward a low-scoring match, with Flamengo’s midfield likely dictating play. Expect a narrow win for Flamengo RJ, with their key creators making the difference in tight moments.