Flamengo Begin Title Defence Against São Paulo in Blockbuster Brasileirão Opener
SÃO PAULO, 29 January 2026 – The 2026 Brazilian Série A season kicks off with a heavyweight clash as defending champions Flamengo travel to face São Paulo at the Morumbi stadium tonight. The match, a historic rivalry, is set against a backdrop of significant transfer activity, with Flamengo closing in on a major signing.
Match Preview: A Storied Rivalry Renewed
The opening fixture of the Betano Brasileirão pits Hernán Crespo’s São Paulo against the reigning Copa Libertadores and domestic champions, Flamengo. Historical data suggests a tightly contested affair, with the last ten head-to-head meetings yielding four wins for Flamengo, three for São Paulo, and three draws. São Paulo will be boosted by the return of striker Jonathan Calleri, while veteran Lucas Moura is expected to start from the bench. Flamengo, under significant expectation, aim to start their title defence with a statement victory away from home.
Key Facts & Team Insights
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Competition | Brazilian Série A (Brasileirão Betano) – Matchday 1 |
| Date & Time | 29 January 2026, 00:30 UTC (28 January local time) |
| Venue | Morumbi Stadium, São Paulo |
| Recent H2H Form (Last 5) | Flamengo: 2 Wins, São Paulo: 2 Wins, 2 Draws |
| Key Team News | São Paulo: Calleri returns to starting lineup. Flamengo: Close to signing Lucas Paqueta. |
| Broadcast (AU/NZ) | Live on beIN SPORTS, available via 7-day free trial. |
Paqueta Transfer Overshadows Build-Up
In a major development off the pitch, Flamengo are on the verge of securing Brazilian international midfielder Lucas Paqueta. Multiple sources confirm West Ham United have granted the player permission to undergo a medical and discuss personal terms with the Rio de Janeiro club. The potential move, reportedly agreed upon in the last 24 hours, would be a significant coup for Flamengo as they prepare for a World Cup year and their Copa Libertadores campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does São Paulo vs Flamengo start in Australia?
The match kicks off at 00:30 UTC on 29 January. For Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), this translates to 11:30 am on Thursday 29 January 2026.
Where can I watch the match live?
In Australia and New Zealand, the match will be broadcast live on beIN SPORTS. Viewers can access coverage through their subscription or by taking advantage of the broadcaster’s current 7-day free trial offer.
Is Lucas Paqueta eligible to play for Flamengo tonight?
No. The transfer agreement is not yet completed, and Paqueta remains a West Ham United player. Even if the deal is finalised imminently, he would be unlikely to feature in this opening fixture due to registration procedures.