Flamengo and Cruzeiro named for decisive Libertadores second leg at Maracanã
Lineups confirmed for the Copa Libertadores round of 16 tie, with a penalty shootout set to decide the winner if the match ends level.
Flamengo and Cruzeiro have confirmed their starting lineups for the second leg of their Copa Libertadores round of 16 tie, scheduled for Wednesday, 19 August 2026, at the Maracanã stadium. The fixture follows a draw in the first leg at the Mineirão, leaving the aggregate score level and the qualification spot undecided.
Under the competition’s regulations, if the second leg concludes in a draw, the team advancing to the quarter-finals will be determined by a penalty shootout. This high-stakes scenario places immediate pressure on both managers to secure a decisive result on the night.
Flamengo manager Leonardo Jardim has opted for an attacking configuration, selecting Pedro to lead the line alongside Plata and Samuel Lino. The selection suggests a focus on forward momentum to break the deadlock in front of the home crowd.
For Cruzeiro, the lineup features a significant change due to disciplinary reasons. Lucas Romero returns to the starting lineup after serving a suspension for the first leg. He replaces Matheus Henrique, who is suspended for this Wednesday’s match and therefore unavailable for selection.
The match represents a critical juncture in both clubs’ continental campaigns. With the tie currently level, the outcome at the Maracanã will directly determine which side progresses to the next stage of the tournament.
Reporting on the lineup announcements is sourced from Yahoo Sports, which detailed the tactical choices and disciplinary impacts ahead of the kick-off.
