From a deadly counterattack to Hulk’s finish: Fluminense’s goals against Platense in the Copa Libertadores

Fluminense built a 2-0 lead over Platense at the Maracanã with two first-half strikes, but the Argentine team left the stadium with renewed belief after a stronger second half.

The opening goal came moments after Platense had won a corner and committed players forward. Fluminense exposed the space left behind, broke quickly, and Nonato finished the counterattack with a shot that went between the goalkeeper’s legs. The transition turned a Platense attacking opportunity into a Fluminense celebration within seconds.

The second goal came through two of Fluminense’s most experienced players. Ganso found room and played a through ball to Hulk on the right side of the area. The forward controlled the move before sending a low, left-footed shot across goal and inside the left post.

Platense responded after halftime. The introductions of Merlini and Gauto added energy and depth, and the team pushed closer to Fluminense’s area. Sepúlveda came close with a free header from a cross, but his effort went over the bar.

Fluminense no longer found the same space or attacked with the ease it had shown before the break. Platense grew into the match and created its clearest chances of the second half. The 2-0 deficit gives Fluminense a significant advantage, but Platense will try to overturn it next Tuesday at Vicente López. The match is especially significant for a team making its first international appearance and already among the tournament’s final eight.