Night of reckoning: Flamengo's fate on the line at the Maracanã | OneFootball

Flamengo vs Deportivo Táchira FC: Libertadores Prediction and Pre-Match Analysis

Match Context

Flamengo meet Deportivo Táchira FC at the Maracanã on Wednesday night in their final group stage fixture of the 2025 CONMEBOL Libertadores. For Flamengo, this is a decisive moment: a win guarantees progression to the Round of 16, while any slip opens the door for LDU Quito to leapfrog them. Meanwhile, Táchira come into the tie already eliminated, having failed to collect a single point from their first five matches.

Flamengo: Squad Status and Recent Form

Filipe Luís’ side approach this fixture with momentum, having recently dispatched Palmeiras away and recorded wins over LDU de Quito and Bahia. The defense, anchored by Léo Ortiz and Léo Pereira, has conceded just once in the last four matches. The creative influence of Giorgian De Arrascaeta has been critical—he’s notched 7 goals and 3 assists in the group, and scored again from the spot in the victory over Palmeiras.

However, there are concerns. Gerson is a doubt after picking up a knee injury, and other midfielders are being monitored for fitness. On the plus side, Wesley is back from suspension, and Matías Viña could return to the squad after a lengthy absence. Off the pitch, Flamengo have seen supporter unrest over high ticket prices, leading to increased club engagement and price reductions. There’s also been spotlight on Danilo’s Brazil call-up and ongoing match-fixing investigations involving Bruno Henrique, but these issues have so far not derailed on-field performances.

Flamengo’s depth stands out. Even with injuries, players like Luiz Araújo, Bruno Henrique, and Pedro bring threats from various angles, while Agustín Rossi’s reliability in goal was underscored by his penalty save against Palmeiras.

Deportivo Táchira FC: Rebuilding and Struggles

For Táchira, the Libertadores campaign has been one to forget. Five consecutive defeats, with defensive frailties exposed in each match, have left morale and confidence low. The squad is in transition, as evidenced by numerous free transfers and a reliance on experienced but aging campaigners like Roberto Rosales and Leandro Fioravanti. Their group stage run has seen at least two goals conceded in four out of five outings, and attacking output has been limited, with Lucas Cano unable to change the tide.

With nothing at stake but pride, Táchira will likely approach the match as a low-risk spoiler. They have leaned on a defensive setup throughout the group but have yet to show the organization needed to frustrate a side of Flamengo’s quality.

What to Watch For

The Maracanã is set for a high-volume, high-pressure atmosphere, with Flamengo supporters viewing this as a must-win. The presence of Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti and Vini Jr. in the stands will add extra attention to individual performances, with De Arrascaeta and Pedro both under the spotlight.

Flamengo’s tactical structure, flexibility in midfield, and wide attacking options could exploit Táchira’s defensive weaknesses from the outset. The main selection intrigue is whether Gerson is fit to feature, but even if he misses out, Flamengo possess the required depth to control the match.

Prediction and Score

With both teams’ motivations and form in clear contrast—Flamengo seeking progression, Táchira already eliminated and reeling from five defeats—expect a match played mostly in Táchira’s defensive third. Flamengo’s recent form, home advantage, and attacking depth make them heavy favorites to claim three points and secure their place in the Libertadores knockout rounds.

Predicted Score: Flamengo 3 - 0 Deportivo Táchira FC