After a 5-1 thrashing of Mirassol in the Brazilian Serie A, defender Danilo preaches caution and balance at Flamengo, which now turns its attention to the decisive clash against Cruzeiro.
Flamengo confirmed their status as favorites last Sunday (16) by delivering a resounding 5-1 victory over Mirassol in a match valid for the 23rd round of the Brazilian Serie A.
The result kept the Rubro-Negro in the hunt for leaders Palmeiras, narrowing the gap to just three points and restoring confidence to the squad after a brief period of inconsistency.
Even with the high-scoring win, the mood in the locker room remains grounded. In an interview after the final whistle, defender Danilo highlighted the importance of maintaining internal consistency.
The player assured that the team’s total focus is already on the upcoming international commitment that will define the club’s future this season.
The search for balance
For Danilo, the key to the Rubro-Negro‘s success in this final stretch of the season lies in emotional resilience.
The defender emphasized that the group is working to keep the environment shielded, avoiding excessive euphoria after victories or pessimism following frustrating draws.
We need to be consistent at all times. I believe that when the results weren’t coming, it didn’t mean everything was wrong, and now that we’ve won 5-1, we shouldn’t be overly happy or ecstatic either. Obviously, we value the work, but ‘balance’ is the word we have been preaching a lot within our environment.
Unity and internal accountability
Flamengo‘s turning point did not happen by chance. After draws against Internacional and São Paulo, the squad held a candid conversation to adjust their approach.
According to the defender, the maturity of the veteran players was fundamental in getting back to winning ways and taking responsibility on the pitch.
It was important that we were honest, that we looked each other in the eye and really spoke about what needed to improve, what step we needed to take forward so we wouldn’t keep playing the victim due to other circumstances, and instead take responsibility.
Highlights of the triumph and league table
On the pitch, Mengão controlled the game from the start. Jorge Carrascal opened the scoring in the first half, but the team took off after the break.
With a devastating performance, Pedro scored twice, while Luiz Araújo and Samuel Lino added to the tally, with João Victor netting a consolation goal for the hosts.
With 45 points, Flamengo remains firm in second place in the Brazilian Serie A. The scenario became even more favorable following Palmeiras‘ loss to Fluminense.
Next challenge: Libertadores decider
Flamengo‘s next commitment feels like a final. This Wednesday (19) at 9:30 PM (Brasilia time), the team hosts Cruzeiro at the Maracanã.
The match is the second leg of the Libertadores Round of 16. A full house is expected as the team looks to secure qualification.
Official coverage will be provided by Globo, GE TV, and Paramount+.
