Flamengo defeats Palmeiras 1-0 in Lima to win fourth Copa Libertadores title

Flamengo secured their fourth Copa Libertadores title on Saturday, defeating domestic rivals Palmeiras 1-0 in the single-game final held at the Monumental Stadium in Lima, Perú.

The victory makes Flamengo the first Brazilian club to become four-time champions of the continental tournament. The decisive goal was scored by experienced midfielder Danilo, 34, who connected with a header.

The final marked the latest and most significant chapter in an intense rivalry between the two Brazilian giants. In the months leading up to the final, the relationship between the teams was characterized by disputes that some officials referred to as a "war," involving public attacks between club presidents and hostility among journalists who support the respective teams.

For Flamengo, the win offered redemption following their defeat to Palmeiras in the 2021 final, which took place in Montevideo. Flamengo had previously won the tournament in 2019 and 2022, making this their fourth final appearance since 2019. Palmeiras, who had won the title in 2020 and 2021, was seeking their third title since 2020.

The contest was tightly fought, and the result drew complaints from the defeated Palmeiras side regarding the officiating by Argentine referee Darío Herrera.

Palmeiras players and staff reportedly protested Herrera's decision to issue only a yellow card to Flamengo midfielder Erick Pulgar. The incident occurred in the 30th minute of the first half when Pulgar kicked Bruno Fuchs' shin during a stoppage in play. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was also involved in reviewing the incident, according to reports.

The match, concluded with emotional scenes. Following the final whistle, Flamengo coach Filipe Luís was seen shedding tears of emotion, while exchanging a cordial greeting with Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira.