Bolívar 2-0 Fluminense: VAR Denies Soteldo as Bolivian Side Triumphs in Libertadores

Key facts

• Bolívar defeated Fluminense 2-0 in a Copa Libertadores group stage match.
• Yeferson Soteldo scored for Fluminense but the goal was overturned by VAR for offside.
• The match ended with Bolívar leading 2-0 after full time.
• Five minutes of added time were announced by the fourth official.
• Fluminense sits fourth in their group with only 1 point as of 1 May 2026.
• Bolívar's Dorny Romero won a free kick on the left wing after a foul by Hércules.

Bolívar Seizes Control in High-Stakes Libertadores Clash

Bolívar defeated Fluminense 2-0 in a Copa Libertadores group stage match that saw a pivotal VAR decision deny the Brazilian side an equalizer. The result leaves Fluminense languishing at the bottom of their group with just one point, while Bolívar strengthens its bid for knockout qualification. The match, played at a high tempo from the outset, saw both sides create chances. Fluminense's Yeferson Soteldo thought he had scored, only for the goal to be overturned after a VAR review for offside. The decision proved decisive as Bolívar doubled their lead before the final whistle.

VAR Overturns Soteldo's Strike in Key Moment

The most contentious moment arrived when Yeferson Soteldo found the net for Fluminense, sparking celebrations that were cut short by the video assistant referee. The VAR review determined that Soteldo was offside, and the goal was ruled out, preserving Bolívar's lead. The decision drew sharp reactions from the Fluminense bench, but replays confirmed the assistant referee's initial flag had been correct. Bolívar's defense, marshaled by Xavier Arreaga, held firm under pressure, with Arreaga himself caught offside later in the half.

Bolívar's Second-Half Dominance Seals Victory

Bolívar extended their lead in the second half through a well-worked move. Erwin Saavedra came close with a right-footed shot from outside the box that missed to the right, assisted by Pato Rodríguez. Leonel Justiniano forced a save from Fluminense goalkeeper Fábio with a right-footed effort from outside the box, set up by José Sagredo. The home side's pressing game disrupted Fluminense's rhythm, with Dorny Romero winning a free kick on the left wing after a foul by Hércules. Fluminense's Guilherme Arana responded by winning a free kick in the defensive half, but the Brazilian side could not find a way back into the match.

Group Standings: Fluminense in Crisis

As of 1 May 2026, Fluminense sits fourth in their Copa Libertadores group with just one point, a precarious position that leaves them facing elimination. The team's failure to convert chances, epitomized by Soteldo's disallowed goal, has been a recurring theme in their campaign. Bolívar, by contrast, has climbed the group table with this victory, positioning themselves for a potential spot in the knockout rounds. The result underscores the competitive nature of the group, where every point is critical.

Match Stats and Key Incidents

The match saw a series of offside calls and fouls that disrupted play. Fluminense's Guga was caught offside, while Bolívar's Xavier Arreaga also strayed. A foul by Erwin Saavedra on Alisson gave Fluminense a free kick in their defensive half, but they failed to capitalize. The fourth official announced five minutes of added time, during which Bolívar's defense held firm. The final whistle confirmed a 2-0 victory for the Bolivian side, with the scoreline reflecting their superior efficiency in front of goal.

What's Next for Both Sides

Fluminense now faces an uphill battle to revive their Libertadores campaign, needing wins in their remaining group matches to have any chance of advancing. The team's reliance on individual brilliance, such as Soteldo's disallowed effort, has not been enough to compensate for defensive lapses. Bolívar, buoyed by this result, will look to build momentum in their next fixture. The victory provides a platform for the Bolivian side to aim for a top-two finish in the group, with the knockout stages now a realistic target.

The bottom line

• Bolívar defeated Fluminense 2-0, with VAR playing a decisive role in overturning a Fluminense goal.
• Yeferson Soteldo's disallowed goal was a turning point, as Fluminense failed to recover.
• Fluminense remains fourth in their group with only 1 point, facing potential elimination.
• Bolívar's defensive organization and counter-attacking efficiency secured the win.
• The result highlights the growing impact of VAR in high-stakes Libertadores matches.