Mengão, the current monarch, begins its campaign in the 64th edition by welcoming Ecuador’s debuting Aucas to the Caldera del Sur for the opening Group A clash in the Copa Libertadores. The fixture marks the first matchday of the group that also includes Ñublense and Racing.
Last edition’s champions, Flamengo, captured their third title after wins in 1981 and 2019. With this year’s campaign, they enter their 19th participation in the premier continental competition, aiming to defend the crown and extend their legacy at the continental level.
For its part, Aucas makes its first-ever appearance in the Libertadores since the competition’s inception in 1945, continuing their presence in CONMEBOL tournaments. The Ecuadorian club previously debuted in the league against Flamengo in 2008, finishing that match in a 0-0 draw.
On the domestic front, Flamengo’s squad—led by Arturo Vidal and Eric Thumb—recently clinched a 2-0 victory over Fluminense in the first leg of the Carioca championship. That result sets up a rematch where Flamengo could seize the state trophy, a prize they have already claimed on 37 occasions, closely following the record of Fluminense, who have secured it 32 times.
Meanwhile, César Farías’ Flamengo-era setup contends in the top tier after a 2-2 draw with Libertad FC. That result leaves them positioned in ninth place in the opening round of Serie A, just behind Independiente del Valle, who lead with five points.
The match between the club known as the Idol of the People and Mengão will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 2 across various channels, depending on the cable operator. The following listings reflect typical regional availability:
- VCR: 167 (SD) – 861 (HD)
- DTV: 608 (SD) – 1608 (SD)
- ENTEL: 239 (HD)
- BRIGHT: 179 (SD) – 479 (SD)
- GTD/TELSUR: 78 (SD) – 855 (HD)
- MOVISTAR: 490 (SD) – 891 (HD)
- YOU SEE: 521 (SD) – 520 (HD) – 112 (HD)
- ZAPPING: 101 (HD)
Fans seeking a streaming option can watch via Star+ on its platform. Star+ offers both monthly and annual subscriptions, and the service is accessible on televisions, computers, mobile devices, tablets, and gaming consoles. To subscribe, viewers should visit the Star+ website. This option provides flexibility for Canadian and American audiences who want to follow the Libertadores action from home or on the go.
Citations: Goal