Author: Vishwajit Sawant
In a breathtaking clash at the iconic Maracanã stadium on Wednesday (27), Fluminense and Internacional put on a show that kept the fans on the edge of their seats during the first leg of the Libertadores semi-final. The final score? A dramatic 2-2 draw, leaving the final decision for a week later at Beira-Rio.
Another draw would take the match to penalties, determining who would advance to the final clash on November 4 at the same Maracanã, where they would face the winner of Palmeiras and Boca Juniors-ARG. Fluminense, who are seeking their first Libertadores title, and Internacional, who are seeking their third, are both looking for glory.
Fluminense’s main striker Germán Cano was the hero of the night, scoring both goals with precision to take his Libertadores tally to an impressive 11. On the other side, Internacional scored with Hugo Mallo and Alan Patrick in each half.
However, the game wasn’t just about goals; it was a rollercoaster of emotions. Fluminense were dealt a blow when right-back Samuel Xavier was sent off with a second yellow card at the end of the first half, even when they were leading 1-0.
The first half was simply mind-blowing, with both teams attacking relentlessly. Fluminense’s attacking stars repeatedly threatened Internacional’s goal, while Internacional’s danger often came from infiltrations in midfield and plays from the back line. Fábio, in top form, made crucial saves to keep the game alive.
The duel between Enner Valencia and Germán Cano, the most prolific scorers, added another layer of excitement. Valencia had a goal disallowed due to an offside position, but Cano, with his impeccable positioning and quick passing, made his mark.
With Cano’s two goals, he solidified his position as top scorer in this year’s Copa Libertadores, with a total of 11 goals. Cano’s magic on the pitch has been fundamental for Fluminense and, if the team progresses, he could be the key to victory.
Samuel Xavier’s dismissal turned the tide, allowing Internacional to equalize just before half-time through Hugo Mallo. The goal was initially disallowed, but then confirmed by the VAR.
In the second half, with Fluminense down to 10 men, Internacional pressed harder. Alan Patrick took advantage of a well-worked move to put Internacional ahead, and it looked like the situation had changed. However, Cano, the man of the moment, once again stepped in with a crucial goal, leveling the score and thrilling the 60,000 fans in attendance.