Following a 1-1 draw with Cruzeiro at the Mineirão in the Libertadores, Lucas Paquetá believes Flamengo had real chances to leave the field with a win.
Flamengo secured a strategic result by drawing 1-1 against Cruzeiro at the Mineirão in the round of 16 of the Libertadores. Although an away draw is historically valued in the continental competition, the mood in the locker room is that their performance on the pitch could have resulted in an even better outcome.
Midfielder Lucas Paquetá, who scored the equalizer after replacing Arrascaeta, was one of the standout players of the match. In an interview with the M360 Team in the mixed zone, the player admitted that the team missed opportunities to extend the lead but praised the collective effort against a high-quality opponent.
Analysis of the match
The game was marked by an intense pace and end-to-end action, which, according to the number 20, reflected the characteristics of both teams. Despite the feeling that they could have left with the advantage, the midfielder acknowledged the difficulty posed by the team from Minas Gerais.
It was an open game. Both teams played well, in my view. We tried to play our game and bring our characteristics to the pitch. We created chances and could have scored another goal, but now it is time to rest and decide it at home.
Focus on the decider and physical recovery
When asked about his personal history in matchups against ‘Raposa’, Paquetá preferred to focus on Flamengo‘s current moment. The main goal now is to use the strength of the Maracanã to secure a spot in the next round.
We are trying to get out there and help Flamengo. Today, the draw was very important as it takes us to a home decider alongside our fans. So, I’m happy about that. We need to keep working so we can pursue this qualification.
The midfielder also commented on his physical condition after suffering a thigh injury during the World Cup. In a gradual recovery process, the athlete is looking to regain his ideal fitness. Flamengo now shifts its focus to the Brazilian Serie A, where they will face Mirassol this Sunday (16), before meeting Cruzeiro again on Wednesday (19) for the decisive duel.
M360 Team
