Fluminense qualifies for Libertadores quarterfinals with Soteldo as a starter

Venezuelan representation in the 2026 Copa Libertadores will continue as Fluminense advanced to the quarterfinals. The Brazilian club secured their passage by overcoming Independiente Rivadavia 4-5 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw on August 18. While Jefferson Savarino was sidelined with a calf issue, Yeferson Soteldo featured prominently, playing 82 minutes.

Fluminense took a 75th-minute lead through Kevin Serna, who converted a pass from Hulk, even while playing with ten men due to an expulsion. Soteldo was substituted seven minutes after this crucial goal. However, in stoppage time, Independiente Rivadavia equalized via an Alex Arce penalty, forcing the match into a dramatic shootout.

The penalty shootout saw fluctuations for both sides. Fluminense's Luciano Acosta missed his attempt, but veteran goalkeeper Fábio, at 45 years old, saved a penalty from José Florentín. Fábio then made another crucial save on Rodrigo Atencio's sixth-round penalty to secure the win for Fluminense.

Soteldo's performance statistics highlighted his effectiveness, with a 92% pass accuracy, completing 22 out of 24 passes. He also delivered a key pass that led to a shot on goal and successfully completed three out of four dribbles.

In other Copa Libertadores news, Deportes Tolima, featuring Yordan Osorio, lost narrowly to Independiente del Valle after their initial match was postponed due to an earthquake. Osorio did not play in this fixture. Meanwhile, Nahuel Ferraresi was part of the Botafogo team that suffered a heavy 6-1 defeat against Cienciano of Peru.

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O futebol é arte do possível e O FLUMINENSE É PRA QUEM ACREDITA! Tricolor, comece o seu dia bem e se emocione mais uma vez com a vitória e a CLASSIFICAÇÃO na CONMEBOL Libertadores!