Praise for the team's attitude, character, and fight. It couldn't have been any different. After the 2-1 comeback against Junior Barranquilla at the Maracanã, coach Reinaldo Rueda spoke to the press at the press conference and spared no praise for the squad. And rightly so. After a match in which the team fell behind and twice managed to break through the 11-man Colombian defense behind the ball, the advantage has shifted, and Flamengo can now draw the return leg in Colombia next Thursday.
Fan club members are proud to play alongside each victory: the money goes to football and brings more reinforcements, new talent, and infrastructure to the training center. And they also have advantages in official stores to buy the jersey and wear it with pride! Click and join now..
"It was a very important victory against a very tough opponent. The team showed character and integrity. We conceded a goal very quickly and the reaction was very good. We need to highlight the team's character and unity. These are difficult and intense games," said the coach, who declined to comment much on the return leg. For Rueda, his initial thoughts are on the match against Santos on Sunday, Flamengo's final match at Ilha do Urubu this season. The team is still in contention for a spot in the Copa Libertadores.
"Now we need to think about Santos. We need to change our mindset for the Santos game. We need to refresh the team in key areas. Everton was rested in the last game and returned today. I need to create a good mix to have everyone in this final stage," explained the coach, who also emphasized the importance of the advantage, but stated that the team cannot change its approach in Colombia.
"We have to think that we're going to play an intelligent game, not press for a draw. We have to win and be smart to manage the advantage."
Diego alves
In the 19th minute, goalkeeper Diego Alves collided with Yony González and was injured. A subsequent examination revealed a fractured collarbone, and the club's starting goalkeeper will miss the rest of the season. His direct replacement is Muralha, who took the field with the support of the fans. For the coach, this support will be crucial for the rest of the season.
"Today, more than ever, we need the support of the fans. We're together and we need their support. The players are working well, and this commitment is important for all of us," Rueda concluded.
Fan club members are proud to play alongside each victory: the money goes to football and brings more reinforcements, new talent, and infrastructure to the training center. And they also have advantages in official stores to buy the jersey and wear it with pride! Click and join now..
"It was a very important victory against a very tough opponent. The team showed character and integrity. We conceded a goal very quickly and the reaction was very good. We need to highlight the team's character and unity. These are difficult and intense games," said the coach, who declined to comment much on the return leg. For Rueda, his initial thoughts are on the match against Santos on Sunday, Flamengo's final match at Ilha do Urubu this season. The team is still in contention for a spot in the Copa Libertadores.
"Now we need to think about Santos. We need to change our mindset for the Santos game. We need to refresh the team in key areas. Everton was rested in the last game and returned today. I need to create a good mix to have everyone in this final stage," explained the coach, who also emphasized the importance of the advantage, but stated that the team cannot change its approach in Colombia.
"We have to think that we're going to play an intelligent game, not press for a draw. We have to win and be smart to manage the advantage."
Diego alves
In the 19th minute, goalkeeper Diego Alves collided with Yony González and was injured. A subsequent examination revealed a fractured collarbone, and the club's starting goalkeeper will miss the rest of the season. His direct replacement is Muralha, who took the field with the support of the fans. For the coach, this support will be crucial for the rest of the season.
"Today, more than ever, we need the support of the fans. We're together and we need their support. The players are working well, and this commitment is important for all of us," Rueda concluded.