Penalty shootout triumph over Central Córdoba
In a knockout night that felt more like a thriller than a football match, Argentine club Copa Sudamericana hopeful Lanús edged past Central Córdoba in a penalty shootout. The tie had been deadlocked after regulation time, forcing both teams to the dreaded spot‑kick duel. Lanús' goalkeeper made a crucial save on the third attempt, and their takers kept cool under the pressure, converting all their chances while Central missed two. The victory not only propelled Lanús into the quarter‑finals but also signalled a surge in confidence for a side that had struggled in earlier rounds.
Fans of Lanús erupted in the stadium, waving flags and chanting until the final whistle. The emotional high was palpable, as supporters knew they were about to face one of South America's most decorated clubs – Fluminense – in the next stage. The win also highlighted the tactical discipline of Lanús' coach, who had rotated his squad wisely to keep players fresh for the upcoming challenge.
Quarter‑final showdown with Fluminense
The first leg in Argentina saw Lanús seize a vital 1‑0 lead thanks to a well‑timed run and finish by Marcelino Moreno. Moreno’s goal came from a low cross inside the box, leaving the Brazilian goalkeeper stranded. That slender advantage set the tone for a tightly contested return leg at the iconic Maracanã.
When the teams met in Rio de Janeiro, the atmosphere was electric. Fluminense responded early, with Agustín Canobbio delivering a spectacular bicycle kick in the 27th minute that rattled the net and levelled the tie on the night. The Brazilian side pressed hard afterwards, creating several chances, but Lanús’ defense held firm, with veteran centre‑back Germán Cano clearing a dangerous cross that almost turned into a header, hitting the post.
In the second half, Lanús found the breakthrough they needed. Dylan Aquino, a recent signing, latched onto a quick counter‑attack and slotted the ball past Fluminense’s keeper, restoring Lanús’s aggregate lead to 2‑1. The goal sparked a wave of cheers from the Argentine contingent, who had travelled in large numbers despite the distance.
Midway through the second half, a disturbance broke out in the stands involving a group of Lanús supporters and local police. The incident forced a temporary suspension of play, adding another layer of drama to an already tense encounter. Once order was restored, the match resumed, and Fluminense threw everything at Lanús, including a late header from Germán Cano that struck the post, denying them an equaliser.
When the final whistle blew, Lanús celebrated a hard‑won 1‑1 draw on the night but a 2‑1 aggregate victory overall. The win sent shockwaves through the Brazilian camp and underscored Lanús’ resilience in knockout football. Their journey now moves to the semifinals, where they will await the winner of the Alianza Lima vs Universidad de Chile tie.
Looking ahead, Lanús’ manager praised his squad’s mental strength, noting that the ability to handle pressure in both a shootout and a hostile away environment will be crucial for any future challenges. The club’s supporters, still buzzing from the Maracanã victory, are already planning a massive home celebration for the next round, hoping that the Argentine side can continue its fairy‑tale run in the tournament.