Cuéllar emphasizes the need for victory: "We need to get the three points"
Midfielder analyzes duel against Chapecoense and talks about the Colombian team's qualification for the 2018 World Cup
By Matheus Oliveira - inBack in training with the group after serving with the Colombian national team in the final matches of the Russia World Cup qualifiers, Cuéllar gave a press conference in the Victorino Chermont Press Room at Ninho do Urubu. With Colombia's qualification assured, the midfielder's focus is on delivering his best performance for the "Mais Querido" team to secure victories and secure his place in the final squad.
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"As I said at the beginning of the year, anyone who plays for Flamengo has every chance of representing their country, given the pressure of playing here. Whoever plays will certainly have the coach's eye on them," explained the number 26, speaking about the significant achievement. "There's no explanation; it's indescribable. Thank God I experienced this moment with my national team. To keep my place, I need to play well for Flamengo. I need to perform for the club, win games, try to do my best and get closer to being called up," the midfielder commented.
Thinking again about the Rubro-Negro's commitments in the Brazilian Championship, the midfielder emphasized the need to return to winning ways. This Sunday (15), the team led by his compatriot Reinaldo Rueda will face Chapecoense, in a match that will be held at Arena Condá. Cuéllar emphasized the importance of achieving a good result in the match.
"We're a great team and we have to play wherever we play, and it can't be any different in Chapecó. We need to get the three points to get closer to a direct spot in the Libertadores, which is our goal. It won't be easy, because Chapecoense is a good team and has its own challenges, but Flamengo will fight for its objectives," he analyzed.
With the lack of victories in recent matches, the pressure for triumphs is growing on all fronts. The Colombian commented on the team's year, emphasizing the need for improved performance and the effort the players made to achieve their season goals.
"The fans have the right to demand it. Our squad is very good. I don't think Flamengo's year is that bad because it's not over yet. We're looking to be in the top four by the end of the year. We're frustrated by the results, but this should serve as a lesson to work even harder. We have to give 100% and strive for results, but the players' consciences are clear because we strive every day to achieve our goals," he stated.
Among other topics discussed during the midfielder's conversation with reporters was the delay in his flight back to Brazil after the Colombia match. Cuéllar also discussed the possibility of winning the Copa Sudamericana and the team's progress in the Brazilian Championship.
Check out the number 26's press conference in full: