Flamengo executive José Boto criticized the attitude of rivals regarding match officials, highlighting the team’s focus on the pitch during the decisive stretch of the season.
The arrival of the Flamengo delegation in Argentina was marked by strong statements from director of football José Boto. While in Argentina to prepare for the Copa Libertadores semifinal, the executive chose to focus on matters on the pitch, but could not resist taking a jab at how recurring rivals in the national scene react to the referees’ decisions.
When asked about the habit players have of surrounding the officiating crew during matches, the executive avoided directly naming Fluminense or Palmeiras, but mocked the behavior of competing teams. The tension on Brazilian pitches has dominated the narrative behind the scenes of the Brazilian Serie A and the continental tournament.
Focus on the game and veiled criticism
Without mentioning names, the Rubro-Negro official pointed out that the Rio-based squad spends its preparation time refining plays and tactics, rather than complaining to the referees. The statement further heats up the atmosphere among the giants of South American football.
“We are a team that cares more about playing football than talking to the referee. Every team should be like that. We know that is not the case. Teams almost train for that, but we prefer to train other things and play football, which is what they are paid for and what they like to do.”
The backdrop for this friction involves an intense week of formal complaints, official statements, and accusations exchanged between the Flamengo board, the São Paulo-based club, and the Fluminense institution. The fierce race for the lead in the national tournament increases the psychological pressure on the officiating class with every round.
Next steps in the cups and the Brazilian Serie A
With Flamengo at the top of the Brazilian Serie A table with 64 points—just one more than their São Paulo rival—the marathon of games requires total focus. The team led by Leonardo Jardim will face Estudiantes on Thursday at Estadio UNO Jorge Luis Hirschi, in La Plata, with Paraguayan referee Juan Benítez in charge.
Meanwhile, the other Libertadores semifinal begins this Wednesday, as Fluminense and Palmeiras face off at the Maracanã, with Argentine referee Facundo Tello blowing the whistle. The return legs and the grand final, scheduled for the Estádio Centenário in Montevideo, promise to keep the level of scrutiny and the controversy surrounding the officiating at the pinnacle of continental football.
