Defending Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo have submitted a formal protest to South American football's governing body questioning the participation of former Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo in Thursday's semi-final defeat. The Brazilian heavyweights crashed out on penalties at the Maracana after failing to break down 10-man Estudiantes across two goalless legs.
Palmeiras and Estudiantes de La Plata booked their spots in the 2026 CONMEBOL Libertadores Final following dramatic semi-final penalty shootouts. Goalkeeping heroes Carlos Miguel and Fernando Muslera proved decisive to setup a historic clash at Montevideo's Estadio Centenario on 28 November.
Neymar marked his return from injury in style by coming off the bench to score twice from the spot and rescue a 2-2 draw for Santos against Flamengo on Thursday. The talismanic forward halted the Serie A leaders' winning momentum at Vila Belmiro, providing title rivals Palmeiras with a major boost during a frantic second half.
A major regulatory shift in Brazilian football has sparked a fierce internal debate, as the CBF moves to drastically curb the number of foreign players allowed in domestic squads. Former Flamengo director Marcos Braz has led the criticism, warning that the new restrictions represent a significant regression for the nation's sporting ambitions.
Erbil
