Palmeiras survive a late collapse, win shootout to reach Copa Libertadores semifinals

QUITO, Ecuador - Brazil's Palmeiras secured their spot in the Copa Libertadores semifinals after overcoming a late collapse against Liga Universitaria de Quito. The Brazilian side entered the return leg with a 1–0 advantage, extending it to 3–1 through goals from Marlon Freitas and Vitor Roque. However, Liga Universitaria fought back with goals from Luis Segovia and Michael Estrada in the 90th and 93rd minutes, forcing a penalty shootout.

Palmeiras' goalkeeper, Carlos Miguel, made crucial saves to lead his team to the next stage of the competition. This marks Palmeiras' sixth appearance in the semifinals in the last seven years, as they chase their first title since 2020. The team will now face Fluminense in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, Estudiantes de La Plata advanced to the Copa Libertadores semifinals for the first time in 17 years. The Argentine team secured their spot after defeating Corinthians 1-0, with Alexis Castro scoring a late goal in the 87th minute. The match between Estudiantes and the winner of the Flamengo vs. Independiente del Valle match on Thursday will determine who faces the defending champion Flamengo in the final on November 28 at the Centenario Stadium in Montevideo, Uruguay.