Sudamericana: Fluminense Falls One Goal Short from the Title

Fluminense and LDU played the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana final. After last week’s 5-1, very few challenged the fact that the title was staying in Ecuador – except the Fluminense fans. And not just because they’re fans. Fluminense has been delivering the most breath taking performances at the end of the Brazilian season, which took the club from a relegation that seemed doomed to happen in the Brasileirao to an almost safe spot (we will see on the weekend).

The Maracana was packed with 70 thousand fans (it’s not enough to stress how amazing is 70 thousand people showing up after a 5-1 defeat). And soon, it seemed Flu was going to get over the 4 goal advantage at any time. With just 13 minutes, Diguinho open the score after a ball deflected on the defender. 3 minutes later, LDU’s De la Cruz was ejected after a dirty tackle on Diguinho. It seems the Maracana does not bring any luck to De la Cruz since he danced with Robinho.

Before the half was over, Fred scored the second, sending a wave of hope throughout the stadium. Coach and players did even left the pitch for the half-time. They decided to stay and absorb the incredible atmosphere in the stadium.

Then, in the second-half, LDU held tight on the defense, making the match tough for Flu. Conca and Fred were well marked. Flu hit the post, but things were not easy. With 27 minutes, the impossible seemed to be reaching an end. Defender Gum scored the third. The stadium was anxious for the final goal.

But LDU was brave and kept the result at any cost. The tension grew. And that’s what could never happen took place. Fred was ejected in unnecessary way. The most dangerous player on the pitch as out. The fact that LDU lost another player ejected later did not change things. LDU beat Fluminense again in a South American competition. Again the club from Quito lift a trophy at the Maracana.

This time, however, Flu fans were proud of their team. They clapped and chanted “team of warriors”. It was a lesson on how clubs can make their fans proud even when they lose.

Related posts:

1. Sudamericana: Fluminense One Step Away From the Final!
2. Fluminense Signs Fred, ex- Lyon
3. Fluminense loses Libertadores to LDU. Maracanã cries.
4. Sudamericana: Only One Brazilian Remains
5. Reasons to Watch the Final of Copa Sudamericana