Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Copa Libertadores match.
The hosts are seen as favourites, but the head-to-head record suggests a fairly even match-up: in the last 10 meetings, each side has three wins and there have been four draws. We expect both Flamengo and Internacional to push hard for dominance in this clash.
Flamengo
Flamengo are in good rhythm: in their last Serie A outing, the team beat Mirassol (2:1) at home, registering eight shots on target. Goals came from Léo Pereira and Gonzalo Plata. At the Maracanã, Flamengo have covered a -1 handicap in four of their last 10 matches, but they do concede often — as shown by their recent 1:1 league draw with Internacional.
Internacional
The Porto Alegre club also won their most recent Serie A fixture, defeating Red Bull Bragantino (3:1) away. Ricardo Mathias netted twice, with Alan Patrick adding a third. Under Roger Machado, the team is lively going forward but vulnerable at the back. In four of their last seven away games, both teams have found the net.
Flamengo vs Internacional Prediction
Given Flamengo’s attacking style and Internacional’s tendency to score on the road, a clean sheet for either side looks unlikely. Both clubs have dangerous forwards, prioritise attack, and are not rock-solid defensively. First legs in the knockout stages often see a more open approach to build a cushion. Notably, in four of the last five meetings between these two, both sides have scored.
