Flamengo will have key players sidelined for the decisive clash against Cruzeiro in the Libertadores
Flamengo is preparing for a crucial match in the Round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores against Cruzeiro this Wednesday (19th), but coach Leonardo Jardim will not have his full squad available. The medical department currently has three players sidelined, and the availability of two other stars remains uncertain, increasing the anxiety of the Rubro-Negro fanbase.
The confirmed absences are Alex Sandro, who has been dealing with right calf pain since late July, and Nico De La Cruz, who has a left thigh injury. Vitão is in the final stages of recovery from a muscle injury in the same region.
Doubts in Attack and Midfield
There are still uncertainties regarding the lineup for Everton Cebolinha, who is recovering from the flu, and Bruno Henrique. The forward suffered a hard tackle in the previous match and missed the last game, but there is optimism about his presence against Cruzeiro. Reports indicate that the club’s medical department is closely monitoring the condition of both players.
Probable Lineup and Tactical Analysis
Given the absences and doubts, a possible formation for Flamengo would include Agustín Rossi in goal, Emerson Royal, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Ayrton Lucas in defense; Erick Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta in midfield; and Samuel Lino, Gonzalo Plata, and Bruno Henrique (or Pedro) in attack.
The official lineup will be announced hours before the match.
The M360 team highlights that the players’ physical condition will be a decisive factor for coach Leonardo Jardim, who has previously indicated a preference for a more robust team in Libertadores games. The controversy surrounding Lucas Paquetá‘s potential inclusion is also being discussed by fans, but his physical condition after an injury at the World Cup raises questions.
Pedro Paulo Catonho, from Coluna do Fla, commented:
Based on Leonardo Jardim‘s logic in the Libertadores, if Bruno Henrique is 100%, he will start. The coach mentioned in a recent press conference that he prioritizes physical fitness in Libertadores games, preferring a stronger team. This rule also applies to the competition between Emerson Royal and Varela, with the Brazilian having the advantage.
He added:
Another point widely debated by fans is Lucas Paquetá. But who would he replace? Jorginho? Arrascaeta? On the right wing? It’s a complicated situation. Furthermore, he’s not 100% after his injury at the World Cup.
Where to Watch the Match
The match will be broadcast by Globo on free-to-air TV across Brazil, as well as on the streaming platforms Paramount Plus and GETV on YouTube. For the most passionate fans, special coverage will be provided by Coluna do FlaTV, with Simon Ledo, Rock Hudson, and Rodrigo Lima, live from the Maracanã. An electrifying match is expected for a spot in the quarterfinals.
