Before Flamengo's training session in Colombia, Renê discusses the upcoming match against Santa Fe.
Left-back comments on the team's current situation as they seek qualification.
By Matheus Oliveira - inA night of hard work marked the arrival of Mais Querido in Bogotá, Colombia, during the start of preparations for a new and important challenge in the Conmebol Libertadores. This Monday (23), the red-black squad trained in El Campincito, a space adjacent to the El Campín stadium, which will host the match this Wednesday (25), against Independiente Santa Fé.
In the training session led by coach Maurício Barbieri, the tactical aspect received the main attention. Continuing the adjustments to the team focused on the match, which consisted of an in-depth analysis of the opponent's qualities with the players, the assistant coach from the permanent staff guided the team regarding positioning and offensive movement.
Against the same opponent, at the Maracanã, a draw left a bitter taste due to the good performance, especially in the first half. Aiming to improve performance for the next match, precautions are being taken so that the team does not suffer from counter-attacks and the aerial game of the Colombian team.
In a press conference before training, Renê spoke to journalists and commented on the need for improvement in the pursuit of qualification. “We know they have a very strong aerial game, with tall players. But our team already knows Santa Fé well and we will work today and tomorrow so that we are not surprised by their set pieces,” said the left-back.
The Flamengo number 6 also outlined what Flamengo should expect from Independiente Santa Fe in another encounter. “I believe Santa Fe will play similarly to how they played at the Maracanã. Their team has had a certain style of play for some time now, judging from the videos we've watched. They play defensively, looking for counter-attacks. I think they will try to exploit that and take advantage of our mistakes, but we will try to prepare well today and tomorrow so we don't make those lapses and don't let them play the way they want,” he analyzed.
The ball will roll this Wednesday (25) in El Campín starting at 21:45 pm, Brasília time.
See other excerpts from Renê's interview:
Fan demand
Here the pressure is much greater. We know how difficult it is, that we're expected to win titles and always be in first place. And even being second in the Brazilian Championship and first in the Libertadores Cup, we need to keep winning. That's what our team has been showing in recent games. We've had a good run of form, but we haven't won at home. Tomorrow we'll have the chance to show the strength of our group. I hope we can get a victory and secure our qualification.
Lack of home wins
We know that in the Libertadores Cup it's always important to win at home, but we are aware of the difficulty of the group. Regardless of whether the game is at home or away, the opponents are always tough. We need to remain calm, which we have been doing in recent games, because that way we will have everything we need to come away with the victory.
Altitude in Bogotá
Most of our team has already played at altitude. I haven't yet, but so far I haven't felt the difference that much. I hope it continues not to affect me tomorrow and that I can have a great game alongside my teammates.
Flamengo highlights
If Diego plays, he's a guy who takes on a lot of responsibility and decides games. He's our star player. We have Vinicius Jr. and Paquetá, who have been playing well. Everton Ribeiro, Arão, Dourado… Whoever plays up front, I'm sure they'll get the job done.