Flamengo and Cruzeiro reveal lineups and absences for decisive Libertadores clash at the Maracanã.
The stakes are high this Wednesday (19) at the Maracanã as Flamengo and Cruzeiro face off in the second leg of their Copa Libertadores Round of 16 tie. Coaches Leonardo Jardim and Artur Jorge have finalized their starting elevens for this crucial encounter, with both teams aiming to advance in the prestigious South American club competition.
Flamengo’s Strategy and Absences
Flamengo will take the field with:
Rossi; Royal, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Ayrton Lucas; Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta; Plata, Samuel Lino, and Pedro.
The Rio de Janeiro giants, however, are dealing with four significant absences. Alex Sandro is recovering from pain in his right calf, while De La Cruz is sidelined with a left thigh muscle injury. Defender Vitão is also out with a muscular contusion, and Cebolinha has been omitted due to technical decision.
Cruzeiro’s Starting XI and Unavailable Players
Cruzeiro‘s lineup for the match is:
Otávio; William, Fabrício Bruno, Jonathan Jesus, and Gabriel Rojas; Lucas Romero, Gerson, and Matheus Pereira; Arroyo, Wesley, and Kaio Jorge.
The team from Minas Gerais faces an even more challenging situation with five confirmed absences. Gabriel Pec, Cássio, Villarreal, and Sinisterra are all in the medical department, while Matheus Henrique is serving a suspension.
First Leg Result and Qualification Scenarios
The first leg, held on the 12th, ended in a 1-1 draw, with goals from Arroyo for the Minas Gerais side and Lucas Paquetá for Flamengo. This result leaves Flamengo needing just a single victory to secure their spot in the next round. A repeat of the 1-1 scoreline would send the tie to a penalty shootout, adding further drama to the already intense atmosphere.
The match is scheduled for Wednesday (19) at 9:30 PM (Brasília time) at the Maracanã and will be broadcast by Globo, GE TV, and Paramount+.
