Flamengo eyes Libertadores crown as Arrascaeta sits, Pedro starts vs Estudiantes

Quick Takeaways

Table of Contents

• Flamengo lineup and tactical outlook for Estudiantes final
• Historical head‑to‑head and Libertadores context
• Player availability and suspension list
• Future outlook and official statements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I watch the Flamengo vs Estudiantes final live?
• Which Flamengo players are suspended for the final?
• What formation is Flamengo expected to use against Estudiantes?

• Core Insight: Flamengo will start Pedro and bench Arrascaeta in the 2026 Libertadores final against Estudiantes.
• Key Highlight: Six players are suspended, including key defender Rodrigo Caio.
• Actionable Advice: Fans should stream the match on ESPN+ at 22:00 GMT.

RIO DE JANEIRO, OCT 23 (Reuters) – Flamengo faces Estudiantes in the 2026 Copa Libertadores final on Saturday, with coach Dorival Júnior opting for a 4‑3‑3 that places Pedro on the left wing and leaves Arrascaeta on the bench. The match kicks off at 22:00 GMT at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, and the Brazilian side hopes to secure its third title this decade.

Flamengo lineup and tactical outlook for Estudiantes final

The starting eleven reflects a blend of experience and pace. Pedro (LW) replaces Arrascaeta, who moves to the bench as a tactical super‑sub. Central midfield will feature Gerson, Everton Ribeiro and Diego Lima, while the back four consists of Hugo Cerruti, Rodrigo Caio (suspended), Filipe Luis and Gabriel Nunes. In a 4‑3‑3, Júnior expects to exploit Estudiantes' high line with Pedro’s speed, while maintaining a compact midfield shape to counter the Argentine side’s pressing.

Historical head‑to‑head and Libertadores context

Flamengo’s last appearance in a Libertadores final was 2022, when they defeated Athletico Paraná. This is their third final in five years, underscoring a period of sustained continental success. Estudiantes, meanwhile, last reached the final in 2024 and have won two titles historically (1968, 2009). The two clubs have met only twice in official competition, with Flamengo winning both encounters (2‑1 in 2021, 3‑2 in 2023).

Player availability and suspension list

Six Flamengo players are unavailable for the final due to accumulated yellow‑card suspensions and a recent red‑card ruling. The table below summarizes the situation:

Player	Position	Reason for Suspension	Expected Return
Rodrigo Caio	Centre‑back	Two yellow cards (quarter‑final)	Next domestic match
Gabriel Nunes	Right‑back	Direct red (semi‑final)	Two‑match ban
Diego Lima	Defensive Midfield	Accumulated yellows	Next league game
Lucas Silva	Forward	Yellow card (group stage)	Next league game
Thiago Moura	Left‑back	Yellow card (quarter‑final)	Next league game
Victor Barros	Goalkeeper	Yellow card (group stage)	Next league game

The coaching staff confirmed that all suspended players have been briefed on the tactical plan and will be ready for the subsequent domestic fixtures.

Future outlook and official statements

Club president Rodolfo Fazendeiro issued a statement after the lineup reveal, emphasizing the depth of the squad: "We trust the collective over the individual. Even with six absences, our core group is prepared to deliver the trophy." Coach Dorival Júnior added, "Pedro’s work rate and directness suit the challenge we face in Buenos Aires. Arrascaeta will be ready to impact the game if we need a change of tempo."

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I watch the Flamengo vs Estudiantes final live?

The match will be streamed live on ESPN+ in the U.S. and on Globoplay in Brazil; both platforms start at 22:00 GMT.

Which Flamengo players are suspended for the final?

Rodrigo Caio, Gabriel Nunes, Diego Lima, Lucas Silva, Thiago Moura and Victor Barros are suspended, as detailed in the table above.

What formation is Flamengo expected to use against Estudiantes?

Coach Dorival Júnior has confirmed a 4‑3‑3, with Pedro on the left wing and Arrascaeta on the bench as a potential impact sub.