After the match at Ilha do Urubu, which resulted in a 2-1 defeat for the red-and-black team to Santos, coach Reinaldo Rueda held a press conference in the stadium's press room. Regarding the unfavorable result, the coach commented on the discussions he had with the squad in preparation for the match. This would be a crucial match in the fight for a direct spot in the CONMEBOL Libertadores, the Colombian emphasized.

"We had considered this. We talked to the group about the importance of winning this game and going to Barranquilla with peace of mind. We started the game winning, but these situations arose. At halftime, I tried to reassure the group. We all have a share of responsibility, and now it's time to rebuild the team for Thursday," he said.

Starting this Monday (27), the focus turns once again to the Conmebol Sudamericana, a competition in which Mais Querido is seeking a place in the final. Rueda emphasized his confidence in the team's ability to react to the international match, despite this Sunday's defeat.

"It's a difficult time. We lost an important game. We know it would be vital to get points given our position in the table and the rivals that are approaching. We made mistakes that cost us the score and resulted in a difficult defeat. We need to take responsibility and know that we have 72 hours to react. We have to maintain our balance, recognize that we made mistakes, and get back on track," he concluded.

This Thursday (30), Flamengo will face Junior Barranquilla. The red-black delegation will head to Colombia, where the match will take place, after training on Tuesday. The ball will roll at the Metropolitano stadium from 21:45 pm.