Flamengo faces a critical matchup as they aim to reverse a 1-0 deficit against Lanús in the Recopa Sudamericana. The second leg will take place at Maracanã on Thursday, marking a significant challenge for the team under the management of Filipe Luís. Their history indicates a need for resilience, as Flamengo has not overturned a knockout round deficit since 2022.
Five Key Reasons Flamengo Will Triumph in the Recopa
Despite the recent setback, there are five compelling reasons to believe in Flamengo’s potential for success in this tournament.
1. Strong Home Advantage
Maracanã has been a fortress for Flamengo. In 2025, the team’s home winning percentage stood at 77.4%. Furthermore, they secured three victories in five matches played at this iconic venue in 2026, suffering only one loss to Fluminense.
2. High-Scoring Form
Since mid-2025, Flamengo has demonstrated impressive scoring capability. In their last 12 matches, they have achieved remarkable victories, including:
- 8-0 against Vitória
- 5-1 against Sport
- 7-1 against Sampaio Corrêa-RJ
Such performances indicate their ability to score multiple goals, essential for reversing the first-leg outcome.
3. Key Players Returning
Flamengo welcomes back crucial players for the fixture. Plata, returning from suspension, could significantly impact the game. Additionally, Wallace Yan has recovered from a thigh injury and is expected to be on the bench. Jorginho, who has been training after a six-game absence due to injury, may also return, adding depth to the squad.
4. Favorable Historical Matchup
The historical record between Flamengo and Lanús shows a competitive edge. Out of three encounters, both teams have won one match each, along with one draw. Flamengo’s last victory against Lanús was a convincing 3-0 win in Rio at Engenhão in 2012.
5. Strong Superstitions and Trends
There is a longstanding superstition regarding Brazilian clubs in the Recopa. Since 2017, a pattern has emerged where a Brazilian team loses in one year and triumphs the next. Notable instances include:
- Chapecoense in 2017 (loser), Grêmio in 2018 (winner)
- Athletico-PR in 2019 (loser), Flamengo in 2020 (winner)
- Palmeiras in 2021 (loser), Flamengo in 2022 (winner)
- Fluminense in 2024 (loser), Botafogo in 2025 (loser)
This pattern raises hopes that Flamengo could follow suit in 2026 and turn their fortunes around.
Conclusion
With a passionate crowd expected at Maracanã, Flamengo’s chances of overturning the deficit against Lanús look promising. They must capitalize on their home advantage, high-scoring capability, returning players, favorable history, and the superstitious trends that could play in their favor. A win by two goals in normal time is essential for their Recopa aspirations.
