Gabigol late double wins Flamengo their second Copa Libertadores title as the Brazilian complete a comeback against River Plate
River Plate were on the verge of clinching their second consecutive Copa Libertadores title but two late strikes from Gabriel Barbosa Gabigol win Flamengo their first Cope Libertadores title since 1981.
In an intense atmosphere at Lima in Peru, River Plate made things difficult for Flamengo in the first 45 minutes. The Argentina side pushed the Brazilians with high intensity but the Brazilian were good defensively stop all the dangers incurred by Plate.
Determinant River Plate took a flying start to the game after Rafael Santos Borre’ returned the quickest to a lose ball inside the box, the Plate forward smashed a beneath shot past Flamingo keeper Diego Alves on the 15’ minute.
After the goal, Flamengo saw most of the attacks block at the back of Plate box. The Brazilian restart strongly but Gabriel Barbosa Gabigol saw his nicely curled effort two minutes into the second half went straight into the arms of Plate keeper Franco Armani.
Flamengo needed a miracle to come back into the game as they were outplayed for most minutes of the game, but last minute magic from the Brazilian scrap the title from Plate. Hero Gabigol drew Flamengo level on 89’ minute before snatching the winner in 90+2 minutes.
Flamengo lift their second in all but their first Copa Libertadores title since 1981, and the latest triumph was guided by former Benfica manager Jorge Jesus.
