Buenos Aires, Argentina – Lanús delivered a stunning upset in the first leg of the 2026 CONMEBOL Recopa Sudamericana, defeating Flamengo 1-0 at Estadio Ciudad de Lanus on . A 77th-minute strike from Rodrigo Castillo proved to be the difference, giving Lanús a narrow advantage heading into the second leg in Brazil.
The match, played before a passionate home crowd, saw Lanús establish themselves as the more assertive side, particularly in the second half. While Flamengo enjoyed the lion’s share of possession – controlling 65.1% of the ball – they struggled to translate that dominance into clear-cut chances. Lanús, in contrast, were clinical when opportunities arose.
The breakthrough came in the 77th minute when Castillo found the back of the net. The goal sparked jubilant scenes at the Estadio Ciudad de Lanus, and puts pressure on Flamengo to perform in the return leg.
Flamengo’s Léo Ortiz acknowledged the team’s shortcomings after the match, stating, “We have to be better.” His comments underscore the need for significant improvement if Flamengo are to overcome this first-leg deficit.
The statistics reflect the contrasting styles of play. Lanús registered five shots on goal from 17 attempts, while Flamengo managed only one shot on goal from nine attempts. Lanús also earned more corner kicks (12) than Flamengo (3). The Argentinian side demonstrated a greater willingness to test the Flamengo goalkeeper, while Flamengo’s passing game lacked penetration in the final third.
The lineups showcased experienced players on both sides. Lanús fielded a starting eleven featuring players like Sasha Marcich, Tomás Guidara, and Marcelino Moreno. Flamengo’s lineup included Nahuel Losada, José Canale, and Felipe Peña. Both teams made substitutions in the latter stages of the match, attempting to inject fresh energy and alter the tactical dynamic.
The victory has been lauded in Argentinian media, with reports highlighting Lanús’s ability to “overcome the magnate of South American football,” a clear reference to Flamengo’s financial strength and status as one of Brazil’s most prominent clubs. This sentiment underscores the significance of the result as a triumph for tactical discipline and collective effort over individual brilliance and financial power.
The Recopa Sudamericana pits the winners of the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana against each other. Flamengo won the 2025 Copa Libertadores, while Lanús secured the 2025 Copa Sudamericana title. This competition is highly regarded in South American football, serving as a prestigious indicator of continental dominance.
The second leg is expected to be a fiercely contested affair at Flamengo’s home stadium. Flamengo will need to overcome not only the one-goal deficit but also the psychological blow of losing on home soil. The Brazilian side will likely adopt a more aggressive approach, seeking to impose their attacking prowess and exploit any vulnerabilities in the Lanús defense.
Lanús, meanwhile, will aim to replicate their defensive solidity and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities. Their ability to absorb pressure and remain disciplined will be crucial to their chances of progressing to the next round. The Argentinian side will be buoyed by their first-leg victory and the unwavering support of their fans.
The match officials for the first leg were led by referee Alexis Herrera. The game was relatively clean, with both teams receiving only one yellow card each.
Looking ahead, both Flamengo and Palmeiras are considered potential contenders to cause upsets at the upcoming Club World Cup, according to analysis. The Recopa Sudamericana serves as valuable preparation for these teams as they gear up for global competition.
The second leg of the Recopa Sudamericana promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams vying for continental glory. The outcome will not only determine the champion of the 2026 edition but also provide a significant boost to the winning team’s morale and prestige ahead of other major competitions.
