Fluminense advances to Copa Libertadores semifinals after beating Platense

Fluminense secured its place in the Copa Libertadores semifinals on September 15, eliminating Platense with a 2–1 second-leg victory in Buenos Aires. The Brazilian club's 2–0 first-leg win at the Maracanã had given it a commanding advantage, and despite losing the return match at Estadio Ciudad de Vicente López, Fluminense progressed on aggregate 3–1. Platense's goals came from Guido Mainero in the 30th minute and Bruno Sepúlveda in the 47th, while Canobbio equalized for Fluminense in the 57th minute.

The match was competitive, with Platense mounting pressure in the first half before Fluminense stabilized after half-time. Fluminense controlled possession and created chances to extend its lead, though could not convert them. Platense, competing in the Libertadores for the first time in its history, needed to win by at least three goals to advance directly; a two-goal margin would have forced extra time. The Argentine side's loss ended that historic run.

After the final whistle, violent incidents erupted when Platense supporters invaded the pitch, sparking clashes between players, coaching staff, and fans from both clubs. Fluminense defender Freytes, who had been on the sideline celebrating, was struck by a punch during the confrontation. Encapsulated Platense fans also breached the Fluminense supporter section from multiple points, according to reporting. Several Fluminense players attempted to de-escalate the situation before being sent to the dressing room.

Fluminense, the 2023 Copa Libertadores champion, will face the winner of the Palmeiras versus Liga de Quito quarterfinal in the semifinals. The second leg of that tie was scheduled for September 16 in Quito, with Palmeiras holding a 1–0 first-leg lead. Fluminense is now guaranteed a prize of $2.3 million for reaching the semifinals.

The match was officiated by Chilean referee Cristian Garay and broadcast on ESPN and Disney+. Fluminense had rested key players ahead of the match due to a domestic league fixture on the preceding Saturday; the club lost 3–1 to Atlético Mineiro in the Brazilian Championship. Platense, managed by Martín Palermo (a former Fortaleza and Boca Juniors coach), had similarly preserved players after a 2–1 domestic defeat to Estudiantes.