Flamengo Faces Deportivo Táchira in Libertadores Group Stage Opener

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Flamengo kicks off its 2025 Copa Libertadores campaign on Thursday, April 3, at 9:30 p.m. local time against Deportivo Táchira in San Cristóbal, Venezuela, at the Estadio Polideportivo de Pueblo Nuevo.

Flamengo enters the match as the defending champions of the Supercopa do Brasil and Campeonato Carioca. The team has not lost in Venezuela historically, making them strong favorites against a Táchira squad that has recently seen success in its domestic league, sharing the top spot with Deportivo La Guaira, UCV, and Carabobo, each with 18 points over nine matches.

“We are aiming to continue our winning streak in the Libertadores,” said Flamengo coach Filipe Luís. “Despite the injuries, I believe in my squad’s ability to perform under pressure.”

Flamengo faces significant challenges as five players, including key starters Wesley and Gerson, miss the trip due to injuries. This could see the likes of Varela stepping in to fill the gaps. “It’s a tough situation, but it opens opportunities for others to shine,” Filipe Luís added.

On the opposite side, Deportivo Táchira, coached by Edgar Pérez Greco, boasts a competitive lineup, including Venezuelan national team defender Carlos Vivas and Argentine striker Lucas Cano. Táchira seeks to capitalize on home advantage and is coming off a winning momentum.

The expected starting eleven for Táchira features: Jesús Camargo; Roberto Rosales, Carlos Vivas, Mauro Maidana, and Yanniel Hernández; Carlos Sosa, Maurice Cova, and Fioravanti; with Cano and Bryan Castillo leading the attack.

Flamengo’s probable lineup includes: Rossi; Varela, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Alex Sandro; Pulgar and De la Cruz; Luiz Araújo, Michael, Bruno Henrique, and Juninho.

“This match is crucial for gaining momentum in the tournament,” said Cano. “We are ready to give our best on home soil.”

The match will not only mark the initial step towards a potential fourth consecutive Libertadores title for Flamengo, but it also puts Táchira’s capabilities to the test against one of South America’s football powerhouses.

“We have prepared well for this match, and we are not intimidated by our opponent’s pedigree,” added Greco. “We aim to show that Táchira can contend at this level.”

Fans can watch the match live on ESPN and Disney+.