Following their advancement in the Copa Libertadores, defender Léo Ortiz reveals how Flamengo insulated the squad from external criticism during the most unstable phase of 2026.
Flamengo‘s qualification for the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals brought much-needed relief to the club’s environment. In the mixed zone at the Maracanã, defender Léo Ortiz opened up about how the squad handled recent instability this season. The number 3 stressed that the players’ maturity was crucial in maintaining focus and ensuring that external pressures did not interfere with the routine at the training ground.
According to the defender, the club’s culture imposes constant demands, where a string of negative results often creates an atmosphere of skepticism among the public. The group’s strategy, however, has been to strengthen the internal environment.
Shielding Ninho do Urubu
For the center-back, the group’s ability to distinguish between what happens on the pitch and the criticism coming from the outside was the turning point for their recent recovery.
“Moments like these can only be described as the Flamengo way. The demands are extremely high, and when you go two games without a win, the criticism starts. Tough stretches happen, but we are fortunate to have great players who understand these moments and know that this noise from the outside cannot enter our training ground or the locker room,” said Léo Ortiz.
The player reinforced that, even with a packed schedule, the commitment to daily work remains a priority to maintain competitiveness in both the Brazilian Serie A and the continental tournament.
Outlook and Upcoming Challenges
Currently, Flamengo holds a strategic position in the Brazilian Serie A, sitting just three points behind leaders Palmeiras. The team is looking to regain consistency after a series of draws and now turns its attention to the challenge at the Mineirão, where they face Cruzeiro this Saturday (22) at 8:30 PM.
Beyond the focus on the domestic league, the Rubro-Negro is already planning their next step in the Libertadores, awaiting the outcome of the match between Independiente Del Valle and Tolima. Léo Ortiz, who returned to the pitch after a period of cautious physical recovery, also made a point to praise the role of the fans, crediting half of their success in the qualification to the support from the stands—an element he considers non-negotiable for the remainder of the season.
