The battle for the crown to determine who reigns supreme in South America gave us an exciting match, starting with the first leg in Ecuador. LDU de Quito had the home advantage as champions of the 2023 Copa Sudamericana, facing off against Fluminense, who were a force to be reckoned with away from home in the previous tournament, where they were crowned champions of the 2023 Copa Libertadores.

In the first leg, the Ecuadorians dominated the first half, especially after the Brazilian star Marcelo was forced off due to injury, which weakened the Brazilian defense and allowed Quito to control the tempo. However, they couldn't capitalize on their dominance, ending the first half with a 0-0 scoreline.

The second half saw Fluminense take control of possession, with 61% of the ball, feeling comfortable on the ball and aiming for a draw that would allow them to close out the final leg at home for the Recopa Sudamericana. However, they had different plans when Alex Arce scored in the 90+3rd minute. The VAR initially ruled it out, but after a review, it was validated, giving Quito a 1-0 victory.

With this result, Fluminense will play the return leg at their stronghold, the Maracanã, where they were crowned champions of the 2023 Libertadores, now aiming to overturn the deficit and win the Recopa Sudamericana. Meanwhile, LDU de Quito will face a tough away challenge in one of the world's largest stadiums, aiming to clinch the title in this historic venue with the advantage on the scoreboard.