With advice, confidence and continuity, Léo Duarte establishes himself in the red-black defense
The 19-year-old defender started nine of Mengão's last 10 games this season.
By Lucas Dantas - in
It's very difficult to score against Flamengo these days. They've conceded six goals, have the second-best defense, and have players who vary greatly in position. This is the team led by Mauricio Barbieri, who tinkers in the middle, tinkers in the midfield, and remains strong and practically unassailable. This Sunday, against Corinthians, the defense once again came out clean, helping the team to win another victory. Over the last ten games, there have been several changes to the defensive system, but one name remains in the mix: Léo Duarte. The 19-year-old "Garoto do Ninho" has been establishing himself as the fourth center-back, alternating the central defensive duo with Réver, Juan, and Rhodolfo. He boasts plenty of experience, composure, and personality.
Against Corinthians, they made five tackles and only two fouls. Léo also launched himself into the attack, with some good one-twos and nearly scored with headers, demonstrating the strength of the red-and-black aerial game. It's all a result of confidence and time on the field.
"I'm feeling confident. The difference is noticeable from the first games to now, and I'm going to improve even more. I haven't played for two years, and that ends up making me rusty. But, little by little, I'm loosening up more," said the defender after the victory that kept Flamengo at the top of the Brazilian Championship, with 20 points.
Of the 10 games, three were with Juan, Réver, and Rhodolfo, plus Thuler, in the match against Atlético Mineiro. Only one loss, against Chapecoense, and four goals conceded. Léo only didn't start against Emelec, when he replaced Juan. With so much experience on his side, the defender takes advantage of the opportunity to learn the best lessons and makes no secret of it. 
"I talk a lot with the three of them. I talk a lot with them. Playing alongside these guys isn't very difficult. They know the shortcuts, they know where to go. It's been a very good experience for me and I'm learning a lot," he commented.
Goalkeeper Diego Alves is observing everything very well. The number 1 praises the defensive consistency, which comes not only from the back line but also from the work of the midfielders.
"This is largely due to the tactical work done by Mauricio Barbieri, who makes it very clear what each player has to do. That's why each of us is able to perform at a very high level. The team is more compact, with the midfielders knowing what they have to do. We won a consistency with the games and confidence also increases", said Diego Alves, who was full of praise for his younger teammate, but doesn't want to hear about "light conversation because of his age".
"Regardless of age, players need to be treated appropriately. We know they might be nervous, and we're there to provide security. But these are young players who work very well. We have a lot of age, like Juan, who is the most experienced, and we have the new players who are just arriving. But everyone can absorb a lot and help the team at all times," concluded the goalkeeper.
Flamengo returns to the field next Thursday, against Fluminense, at the Mané Garrincha stadium, in Brasília, at 20 pm.