Costly Gonzalo Piovi Error Hands Flamengo the Derby of the Americas Trophy Over Cruz Azul

Cruz Azul arrived in Qatar desperate to rescue its season after falling short in the Liga MX semifinals, but a costly defensive mistake ended those hopes in painful fashion. A glaring error by Gonzalo Piovi proved decisive as Flamengo defeated La Máquina 2–1, claiming the Derby of the Americas trophy and leaving the Mexican side searching for answers once again.

The match was played in front of just over 7,000 spectators at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, set against the backdrop of Qatar’s Arab Cup celebrations. On paper, the clash promised an intriguing contrast of styles between a wounded Cruz Azul and a Flamengo side arriving as reigning Copa Libertadores and Brasileirão champions. The balance, however, collapsed early.

Just 15 minutes into the match, Piovi received the ball from goalkeeper Andrés Gudiño on the left side of his own penalty area. Under minimal pressure, the defender attempted a routine pass but instead sent the ball straight into the heart of the six-yard box. Giorgian De Arrascaeta reacted instantly, intercepting the pass and calmly finishing to give Flamengo a 1–0 lead that stunned the Mexican supporters in attendance.

Cruz Azul attempted to steady itself and push forward. At the 42nd minute, Carlos Rotondi appeared to equalize with a header, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. The setback did not deter La Máquina. Two minutes later, Jorge Sánchez found space outside the box and, with time and little defensive pressure, unleashed a powerful shot that beat Agustín Rossi to level the score at 1–1, restoring brief hope.

The second half opened up and became far more entertaining, with chants of “Azul, azul” echoing through the stands. Cruz Azul pressed in search of a second goal, but Flamengo’s composure eventually told. In the 71st minute, De Arrascaeta struck again, punishing defensive lapses and sealing the 2–1 victory for the Brazilian giants.

Nicolás Larcamón’s side was unable to mount a final response, and Flamengo comfortably closed out the match. With the win, the Brazilian club advances to face Egypt’s Pyramids FC in the Copa Challenger on Saturday. The winner of that match will go on to face Paris Saint-Germain next week for the Intercontinental Cup title.

For Cruz Azul, the defeat extends a bitter run marked by missed opportunities and costly errors. What was meant to be a chance at redemption instead became another reminder of a season defined by frustration, leaving the club facing difficult questions about its immediate future.