Lanús claimed the Recopa Sudamericana title Thursday night, overcoming Flamengo 3-2 in a thrilling contest that went to extra time. The Argentine side secured the victory with two late goals in a rain-soaked Rio de Janeiro, adding another trophy to their cabinet just months after winning the second-tier continental championship.
Rodrigo Castillo put Lanús ahead in the match, and on aggregate. His goal, building on a 1-0 advantage from the first leg in Argentina, initially appeared to be enough, but Flamengo fought back to level the tie at 2-2, forcing the game into extra time. It was in the added period that Canale and Aquino found the back of the net, sealing a memorable win for Lanús.
Lanús had established a solid lead in the first leg, controlling the match and limiting Flamengo’s opportunities. However, the atmosphere at the Maracanã proved a different challenge, with Flamengo immediately pushing for a quick equalizer.
Under heavy rain, Flamengo came out aggressively, and nearly opened the scoring early. A long ball from De Arrascaeta found Carrascal, whose powerful shot forced a crucial save from Lanús goalkeeper Losada. Losada was called into action again moments later, denying Carrascal once more with another impressive stop.
Against the run of play, Lanús struck first. A risky pass from Rossi was intercepted by Ayrton Lucas, who gave the ball away cheaply to Castillo. The forward capitalized on the mistake, unleashing a powerful shot from over 30 meters that found the back of the net.
Flamengo responded quickly, earning a penalty when Carrera handled the ball even as attempting a block. De Arrascaeta converted the spot-kick, leveling the score and injecting renewed energy into the home side.
The second half saw Flamengo pressing for a go-ahead goal, while Lanús remained resolute in defense. Losada continued to prove crucial, denying Paquetá with another strong save. As the clock ticked down, the tension mounted, and the game headed for extra time after a late penalty decision went Flamengo’s way, with Jorginho calmly slotting home the equalizer.
Highlights of Flamengo – Lanús
In extra time, with both teams exhausted, Canale headed home in the 117th minute to put Lanús back in front. Aquino then sealed the victory in stoppage time with a breakaway goal, confirming Lanús as the Recopa Sudamericana champions. The win marks Lanús’ fourth international title and second in just over three months, following their triumph in the second most important club tournament on the continent.
