Plata returns, but Flamengo has four key absences against Del Valle in the Libertadores.
Flamengo is preparing for a crucial clash against Independiente del Valle (ECU) this Thursday (10th), at 9:30 PM (Brasília time), at the Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa.
The match, valid for the first leg of the Libertadores quarterfinals, marks the return of forward Gonzalo Plata to the squad, however, coach Leonardo Jardim will have to deal with the absence of four players.
Key Absences for the Match
The club confirmed that Everton Cebolinha and Lorran did not travel with the delegation to Ecuador. Cebolinha was released to attend to personal matters, while Lorran will join commitments with the under-20 national team.
Joining them are Evertton Araújo, who is recovering from a left thigh adductor injury, and Alex Sandro, who is still undergoing physical conditioning after calf pain in his right leg.
The absence of these athletes represents a tactical challenge for Leonardo Jardim.
Plata is the New Addition in a Decisive Moment
On the other hand, Gonzalo Plata is reintegrated into the group and available to the coach. The Ecuadorian returns after a failed negotiation with Dynamo Moscow (RUS).
His return comes at a critical point in the season, with Flamengo seeking to advance in the Libertadores and maintain its lead in the Brazilian Serie A.
Decisive Libertadores Clash and the Brazilian Serie A Race
The match against Independiente del Valle is a fundamental step in Flamengo‘s journey towards the Libertadores semifinals. The return leg will be played at the Maracanã.
The result in Quito could directly influence the team’s fate in the continental competition. Simultaneously, Rubro-Negro is managing its lead in the Brazilian Serie A.
The match between Independiente del Valle and Flamengo will be broadcast live by ESPN and Disney+. The Coluna do Fla team will also provide full coverage.
Flamengo‘s recent rise to the top of the Brazilian Serie A, with 54 points, boosts the squad’s confidence. The victory over Remo reinforces the positive momentum before the Libertadores challenge.
Equipe M360
