Flamengo and Estudiantes Draw 0-0 in Copa Libertadores Semifinal First Leg; Jardim Criticizes Refereeing

On October 15, 2026, Flamengo and Estudiantes de La Plata played to a goalless draw in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinal at Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi in Argentina. Despite Estudiantes dominating the play and creating several chances — including a notable near-goal attempt from Tiago Palacios saved by Flamengo's Léo Pereira — Flamengo struggled offensively and failed to register a single shot on target throughout the match.

Flamengo's coach Leonardo Jardim expressed frustration with the performance of referee Juan Gabriel Benítez, criticizing the officiating for failing to call fouls in an aggressively physical game. Jardim pointed to the referee’s leniency, which allowed excessive contact and affected the flow of the match, advocating for stricter rule enforcement akin to other international competitions. Benítez, who has been part of FIFA’s refereeing roster since 2019 and officiated eight Libertadores matches this year including a World Cup game, was at the center of Jardim’s comments.

With the first leg ending in a 0-0 stalemate, the decisive second leg will be held on October 22, 2026, at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. Flamengo aims to capitalize on their home advantage to secure a place in the final where they will face the winner of the Palmeiras versus Fluminense match.

Leading up to this semifinal, Flamengo maintained strong form in the domestic league. They defeated Fluminense 1-0 on October 11, 2026, with Jorge Carrascal scoring the decisive goal. This victory helped Flamengo sustain their lead atop the Brasileirão standings with 64 points, one point ahead of Palmeiras.

As Flamengo prepares for the crucial second leg, Jardim’s call for better refereeing standards underscores the competitive and physical nature of the semifinals and highlights the challenges teams face in advancing to the coveted Copa Libertadores final.