The strong early Copa Libertadores form shown by Atletico Mineiro and Boafogo came to an abrupt end as Flamengo were brushed aside in their opening Group 2 fixture by Leon of Mexico, with the hosts ending up as 2-0 victors.
Flamengo’s cause was hampered after as little as 12 minutes when midfieder Amaral was shown a straight red card and the disadvantage told as Argentine cap Mauro Boselli gave Leon the lead after 32 minutes.
A goal just before half time from Paraguayan Victor Caceres gave the Brazilian side hope of escaping with something to show for their efforts, but the game was wrapped up when Franco Arizala bagged after 68 minutes.
The result means that in Flamengo’s 12 Copa appearances they have drawn five and lost four of their opening games away from home.
