Flamengo defeat Barcelona 2-0 in Libertadores semi first leg | OneFootball

Flamengo have taken a huge step towards the final in Montevideo after defeating Barcelona (ECU) 2-0 in the first leg of their Copa Libertadores semi-final tie.

Scorers: Bruno Henrique 21′, 38′

Despite being heavy favourites, Barcelona threatened Flamengo early and often and arguably should have been ahead early if not for a magnificent double-save from Diego Alves.

Though the Ecuadorians threatened on set-pieces, it would be Flamengo who struck first in the 21st minute, with Gabigol supplying an inch-perfect cross to the head of Bruno Henrique.

Bruno Henrique would complete his brace after an incredible ball from Vitinho found the player three yards out in front of the empty net.

It went from bad to worse for the visitors right at the half-time whistle as Nixon Molina was sent off after picking up a second caution.

Despite being down to 10 men, Barcelona had a fantastic chance to score just minutes into the second stanza but David Luiz came up with a thrilling duo of tackles to keep the match at 2-0.

Though it was a smooth night at the office, it wasn’t perfect as Léo Pereira was sent off for violent conduct after his elbow struck Fernando León’s face while setting up for a corner, putting his potential Copa Libertadores final status in doubt.

The two sides will meet in Ecuador next Wednesday, September 29th.