Rubro-Negro faces a tough start as they meet the Quito side in a bid to kick off their continental title defense with momentum.
The South American clash unfolds in Quito as Aucas hosts Flamengo in a Group A opener of the Libertadores Cup 2023, a group that also includes Nublense and Racing. This game marks the defending champions from Ecuadorese football taking their first steps in an edition of CONMEBOL tournaments, while Flamengo pursues its nineteenth continental crown, a record that includes triumphs in 1981, 2019, and 2022.
Locally, Flamengo arrives fresh from a strong start to the Carioca championship, where Arturo Vidal and Eric Thumb led the team to a 2-0 victory over Fluminense in the first leg, keeping them on course for a potential 38th regional title. On the other side, the team coached by César Farías heads into the match after a 2-2 stalemate with Libertad FC, a result that leaves them ninth in the Quito League table with five points, four adrift of the leaders currently led by Independiente del Valle.
The showdown between the defending champions and Flamengo will be televised live on Fox Sports 2, with channel availability varying by cable provider. Local listings include the following: 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).
For viewers preferring a streaming option, Star Plus offers live streaming of the match. The service provides both monthly and annual subscription plans. To subscribe, users should visit the Star Plus official site, and the platform supports viewing on televisions, computers, mobile devices, tablets, and game consoles.
In preparation for the game, fans can expect a competitive exhibition as Aucas seeks to leverage home advantage against Flamengo, a club known for its flair and experience on the continental stage. Flamengo, hungry to extend its storied history, will rely on a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents to navigate the challenges of a difficult group and lay the groundwork for a successful campaign in a tournament that has long defined South American club football.
Both clubs will be mindful of the stakes as they chase qualification from Group A, aiming to build early confidence and pace in the opening fixtures. The result could set the tone for the rest of the Libertadores journey, shaping perceptions for fans, analysts, and scouts across the region as the group phase unfolds.
As kick-off approaches, supporters are reminded to verify local broadcast options and streaming availability based on their location and service provider. The match promises to deliver intense action, strategic battles in midfield, and moments of individual brilliance that could determine the outcome of a tightly contested match.