Cruzeiro’s new forward, Lucho Rodríguez, projects the match against Flamengo as an ‘early final’ in the Libertadores.
Striker Lucho Rodríguez, a recent signing for Cruzeiro, is already demonstrating great confidence and ambition for the remainder of the season. In his official presentation, the player described the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 series against Flamengo as a decisive clash, comparing it to a championship final.
Optimism and Responsibility
Rodríguez spared no words in describing the importance of the duel for the Minas Gerais club. He highlighted the need to approach the match with the utmost responsibility, aiming for qualification to the next stages of the continental competition.
A key game and the most important for the club. We have to approach the game with the responsibility it deserves to get the club through to the next round. It’s not easy against Flamengo, who are a very strong team.
Despite respecting the opponent, the new celestial signing showed conviction in the team’s capabilities.
But we are a team worthy of them, with the capacity and level of the best in South America. It’s an early final of the Libertadores final.
Lucho Rodríguez added.
Reinforcements on the Field
Lucho Rodríguez’s arrival adds to other signings that promise to strengthen Cruzeiro for the upcoming challenges. Forwards João Costa and Wesley have also been registered and could debut as early as this Sunday (09) against Mirassol in the Brasileirão. The trio’s debut in the Libertadores against Flamengo is a strong possibility.
Tight Schedule
The matches between Cruzeiro and Flamengo in the Libertadores Round of 16 already have their dates set. The first encounter will take place at the Mineirão stadium in Belo Horizonte next Wednesday (12), at 9:30 PM (Brasília time). The return leg, which will determine who advances to the quarterfinals, will be held at the Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro on August 19th, at the same time.
Opponent’s Situation
While Cruzeiro is strengthening its squad, Flamengo is still looking to finalize its signings. The name of Luiz Henrique is a target, but negotiations are unlikely to be concluded in time to register him for the Libertadores Round of 16. Before focusing on the South American competition, the Rubro-Negro will face Vitória on Sunday (09) at 7:30 PM (Brasília time) at the Maracanã for the Brasileirão. The match will be broadcast by SporTV and Premiere.
M360 Team
