Flamengo clinch historic fourth Libertadores title as Danilo’s second-half header edges tense all-Brazilian final against Palmeiras.

Flamengo became the first Brazilian club to win the Copa Libertadores four times after defeating rivals Palmeiras.

Former Real Madrid, Manchester City and Juventus defender Danilo powered a header into the bottom corner from a Giorgian de Arrascaeta corner in the 67th minute, securing the breakthrough for Filipe Luís’ side.

Palmeiras nearly forced an equaliser late on, but Victor Roque squandered a clear chance two minutes before full-time, firing over from close range.

Everton nearly put the result beyond doubt in stoppage time, only for goalkeeper Carlos Miguel to tip his low free-kick onto the post.

Between them, Palmeiras and Flamengo have now won five of the last seven editions of the Libertadores.

CBI News reports that Filipe Luís also entered the history books, becoming just the ninth person to win the competition as both a player and a coach, having lifted the trophy with Flamengo in 2019 and 2022.

A cagey first half saw no shots on target, and Chilean midfielder Erick Pulgar was perhaps fortunate to escape a straight red card in the 30th minute after raking his studs down Bruno Fuchs’ leg.

The two sides also met in the 2021 final, which Palmeiras won 2–1.