Two sides are yet to face against each other do in the last 16 ties of the Copa Libertadores as Defensa y Justicia take on Flamengo. The match schedules for Thursday at the Estadio Noberto Tomaghello, with kickoff at 3:30 am.
The visitors finished at second spot behind Palmeiras in Group A, whereas the defending Serie A Brasileiro champions finished undefeated to top Group H.
Last campaign was a tough pill for the hosts to swallow after missing out on the group stages by only one point. This campaign is a different story after making the last 16 while picking nine points in their last six fixtures.
Moreover, it was a successful time in the group stages for the Argentinian side going unbeaten in their last three group matches. Also, it includes a triumphant 4-3 win over group leaders Palmeiras.
Furthermore, Sebastian Beccacece faces an uphill task against a high-flying side with two trophies in 2021. In addition, there is a new challenge in the knockout stages against a far more experienced side.
On the other hand, Flamengo made their fourth consecutive last 16 knockout phases. However, there are bitter memories in the knockout stages eliminated two times in their last three campaigns.
The side head into the competition lifted the Campeonato Carioca and the Supercopa do Brasil this year.
Defensa vs Flamengo Head to Head
Both sides are yet to meet against each other, and this marks their first time. Here is a look at their previous encounters:
Home
- Defensa 1-1 Independiente del Valle
- Palmeiras 3-4 Defensa
- Universitario de Deportes 1-1 Defensa
- Atletico Tucuman 5-0 Defensa
- Defensa 1-2 Palmeiras
Away
- Flamengo 2-1 Chapecoense
- Atletico Mineiro 2-1 Flamengo
- Flamengo 0-1 Fluminense
- Cuiaba 0-2 Flamengo
- Juvnetude 1-0 Flamengo
Defensa y Justicia Team News
Talisman Walter Pou will be the main attacking threat after netting four goals in their opening six tournament matches. In addition, it includes a brace against Palmeiras and Universatario. A major miss in attack is Braian Romero after returning to River Plate end season.
Flamengo Team News
Gabriel Barbosa put up an outstanding start to the campaign after scoring six goals with Miguel Borja for the most competitive. Midfielder Gerson recently secures his move away to Marseille. In addition, centre back Thuler also signed a move away to Montpellier.
Prediction and Odds
The experience might make a difference in the end, thus giving Flamengo a major advantage.
- Flamengo Win
- Goals Under 2.5
- No Score: Home
