Reigning champions Flamengo will begin their Copa Libertadores title defence with an away fixture against Aucas of Ecuador. With stars like Gabriel Barbosa and Giorgian de Arrascaeta leading their attack, Flamengo will push hard and keep control of the majority of the game. The Brazilian team is the favourite going into the match, given their impressive form in the Liga Carioca, with Flamengo having won 9 out of their 13 recent matches. Moreover, Aucas is struggling to score goals in their domestic league, with only four goals in their last four matches, and Flamengo will look to take advantage of this. However, both teams have played defensively in their recent matches, meaning this could be a low-scoring contest. Flamengo also comes into the game with strong defense, with clean sheets in their last three matches. While both teams are evenly matched, Flamengo with their attacking prowess and solid defense should triumph by at least two goals against Aucas.