Match Overview
There was a buzz at Estadio Ciudad de Lanús on September 16, 2025, as over 35,000 fans packed the stadium for the Copa Sudamericana quarter‑final first leg. The Argentine side Lanús went into the match with a thin line‑up – five players were sidelined with injuries – but the crowd’s energy did not waver. Late in the game, Marcelino Moreno slipped the ball past Fluminense’s keeper in the 89th minute, sealing a 1‑0 triumph.
Statistically, the game was tighter than the score suggested. Lanús held 52% of possession and fired 11 shots, four of which hit the target. Fluminense managed six attempts, with just one on goal. Corners also favored the hosts, 5 to 3, while both teams picked up three yellow cards each, reflecting the contest’s physical nature.
- Key Lanús injuries: Felipe Peña Biafore, Ramiro Carrera, Raúl Loaiza, Ronaldo Dejesus, and one unnamed midfielder.
- Fluminense’s absences: Ganso (calf) and questionable status for Nonato (right foot).
Despite the setbacks, Mauricio Pellegrino’s squad mixed seasoned veterans with academy prospects, showing that depth can compensate for missing stars. The Argentine side’s fourth‑place standing in their league group (13 points) proved that consistency at home can translate into continental success.
Looking Ahead to the Return Leg
The second leg will be played at the iconic Maracanã, where Fluminense will need to overturn the one‑goal deficit. Their recent form in the Copa Sudamericana was impressive – a 12‑match unbeaten streak with ten wins and two draws – but their domestic run in the Brasileirão has been shaky, sitting eighth after two wins, one draw, and two losses in the last five games.
Fluminense’s game plan will likely revolve around Lucho Acosta creating chances, especially with Ganso out of the picture. They’ll also depend on their defensive solidity to keep the scoreline close, hoping a single goal will level the tie and push the match into extra time.
For Lanús, the strategy is about balance. They can afford a disciplined defensive display, absorbing pressure while looking to strike on the counter‑attack. A draw would see them through, but a goal would give a comfortable cushion heading into the semi‑finals.
Fans on both sides are already talking about the narrative: a resilient Argentine side overcoming injury woes versus a Brazilian outfit trying to regain its tournament mojo. The atmosphere at the Maracanã promises to be electric, and the tactical chess match between Pellegrino and Fluminense’s coach will be the story to watch.
Regardless of the outcome, the first leg has set the stage for a thrilling showdown. Lanús, buoyed by Moreno’s late heroics, will aim to ride that momentum, while Fluminense will look to rewrite the script in front of a home crowd hungry for redemption.
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