San Lorenzo haven’t had the best of luck in the Copa Libertadores since lifting the trophy in 2014 and after successive first round exits since, Los Cuervos are desperate for progression this time.

Hindered by the delayed start to the Argentine football season, Wednesday evening’s clash with Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro was the first competitive football of the year and it showed.

After a goalless first half, which saw former Independiente captain Federico Mancuello stretchered off after a nasty clash of heads with Ruben Botta, Flamengo took complete control.

Minutes after the restart, Diego took advantage of what seemed to be poor positioning by goalkeeper Sebastián Torrico to delicately clip a free kick over the wall and into the net.

It got worse for the visitors on the hour mark when Peruvian Miguel Trauco found a pocket of space outside the penalty area and smashed the ball into the top corner.

San Lorenzo were stunned and with little response Rômulo bundled in a third and Gabriel added a sensational late fourth to wrap up a simple and emphatic victory for the Brazilians.

Atlético Paranaense are up next for Diego Aguirre’s side in the Nuevo Gasómetro and a result is needed if San Lorenzo do not want to be staring at another early exit.