Amidst changes in the squad and playing style, one name remains prominent: Andreas Pereira, although now part of another team. The match ended 2-1 in extra time, with the attacking player Deyverson scoring the winning goal for Palmeiras in that edition.
Months after the final, Andreas Pereira left Flamengo and headed to England to play for Fulham. This season, he surprised Flamengo fans by returning to Brazil, but to join rival Palmeiras.
Other key players for Flamengo in that final remained with the team, albeit at different moments. Arrascaeta joined his most goal-scoring season for the club, netting 20 goals.
Michael, once considered a top offensive option for Flamengo under then-coach Renato Gaúcho, has now fallen out of favor and no longer gets game-time. He had a two-season stint at the Emirati club Al-Hilal before returning but struggled to establish himself.
Bruno Henrique, an idol for Flamengo, has seen a decline in his performances on the field despite maintaining the fans’ affection. With 9 goals and 2 assists in 50 games, he remains a key player for Filipe Luís. However, he faced challenges such as a severe knee injury in 2022 and ongoing legal issues related to match-fixing.
Pedro, once a backup to Gabigol, could emerge as a standout player for Flamengo if he recovers well from his arm injury. Sidelined due to a fractured arm in the first leg against Racing, he missed the return match.
Filipe Luís, now a coach, has transitioned from player to lead Palmeiras towards a potential fourth continental title.
On the Palmeiras side, in addition to Andreas Pereira, Abel Ferreira plays a significant role as the head coach. The match will mark his fifth year with the team, with the 2021 Libertadores victory being a highlight in his coaching career.
Despite being a crucial part of Palmeiras, goalkeeper Weverton may miss the final due to a serious hand injury. However, captain Gustavo Gómez will continue to be a key leader for the team.
Among the foreign players, left-back Piquerez and Raphael Veiga, who transitioned from a key midfielder to a luxury substitute, will also be part of the Palmeiras squad. Raphael Veiga’s contributions were evident in the 4-0 victory against LDU, securing Palmeiras’ spot in the final against Flamengo, where he scored two goals. These players demonstrate the continuity and evolution from the historic 2021 Libertadores final.
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