Lanus claimed the upper hand in the Recopa final, defeating Flamengo 1-0 on Thursday at La Fortaleza. The continental crown will now be decided at the Maracana next week in what promises to be a high-stakes return leg.

To secure the trophy in regulation time, the 'Rubro-Negro' must win by two or more goals. A 1-0 victory for the Brazilian giants would send the tie into extra time, and should the aggregate score remain level after 120 minutes, the winner will be determined by a penalty shootout.

The Match

Head coach Filipe Luis surprised many by opting for a system without a traditional centre-forward. With Lucas Paqueta deployed in a deeper role alongside Pulgar, the attacking quartet of Arrascaeta, Carrascal, Luiz Araujo, and Everton Cebolinha was granted licence to roam. However, the tactical gamble failed to spark; Flamengo looked toothless in attack and registered only one shot on target throughout the match.

In contrast, Lanus were the more cohesive and threatening side. Rodrigo Castillo thought he had opened the scoring in the first half, only for his effort to be chalked off for offside. The visitors' best opening before the interval fell to Everton Cebolinha, but his well-struck effort was expertly dealt with by Losada.

Argentine Dominance

The second half followed a similar script as Lanus maintained the pressure, frequently exploiting the flanks and testing the Flamengo defence with teasing deliveries. Castillo found the net for a second time, but once again, the celebrations were cut short by an offside flag.

Filipe Luis attempted to alter the course of the game by introducing Pedro, Samuel Lino, and De La Cruz, yet the Rio-based side continued to struggle for creative inspiration.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 76th minute. Marcich delivered a pinpoint cross into the heart of the penalty area, where Castillo rose highest to power a header home. This time, the goal stood. Lanus 1-0.

The Argentines nearly doubled their advantage late on when a speculative cross from Sepulveda rattled the woodwork. Flamengo, meanwhile, failed to muster a response. The result leaves the Brazilians under immense pressure heading into the Maracana decider, as they look to avoid another runner-up finish following their recent disappointment in the Brazilian Supercup.

R. Castillo

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