The Brazilians had been trailing in Lima after an early Rafael Santos Borre strike into the corner. River Plate dominated the first half, but Flamengo came back fighting after the break. It wasn’t until the 89th minute that they managed to equalise through Gabigol, who pounced on Pratto giving the ball away cheaply.
Moments later, Flamengo and Gabigol had turned it around completely, this time rapaciously intercepting a Pinola header.
The drama wasn’t over, because Palacios saw red for a scuffle and Gabigol was also sent off in chaotic scenes. It means the 23-year-old striker, on loan from Inter, concludes the season with 31 goals in 39 competitive games for Flamengo. He scored nine in 12 Copa Libertadores matches to get Flamengo the unexpected title.