After a crucial draw against Cruzeiro in the Libertadores, defender Léo Ortiz highlighted the ‘grit’ of the Rubro-Negro squad as a decisive factor in maintaining composure under pressure.
Flamengo secured an important result in the first leg of the Libertadores round of 16 by drawing 1-1 with Cruzeiro last Wednesday (12). After conceding the opening goal to the team from Minas Gerais, the Rubro-Negro showed resilience to fight back for the equalizer, with the crucial goal scored by Lucas Paquetá.
For defender Léo Ortiz, the team’s ability to react is no coincidence, but rather a result of the vast experience accumulated by the squad in international competitions. The player emphasized that the current group has already gone through similar trials by fire, citing the victorious 2025 campaign as the athletes’ strong psychological foundation.
International Experience as an Asset
Analyzing the team’s performance on the field after conceding the goal, the defender stressed that maturity was the difference maker. According to him, the squad has experienced various adverse scenarios, which allows them to maintain tactical organization even under strong pressure from the opposing crowd.
“It’s always very difficult to play here. A very nice atmosphere too. Last year, this group proved that they know how to deal with this type of atmosphere. We decided all our away games last year. We faced all kinds of scenarios and situations. This group is used to these situations and handles them very well. After the goal, we knew we had to keep possession, go forward, because we had the quality to equalize and even turn the game around.”
Léo Ortiz stated in an interview cited by the Equipe M360.
A Track Record That Inspires
The defender’s confidence is based on the club’s recent history in the continental tournament. In 2025, Flamengo consolidated its strength by deciding all knockout stage matches away from Rio de Janeiro, overcoming traditional rivals such as Internacional, Estudiantes, and Racing, before lifting the trophy against Palmeiras in Lima.
This “Libertadores DNA” seems to be the fuel the team is looking to reignite for the remainder of the 2026 season.
Decisive Participation
In addition to defensive solidity, Léo Ortiz played a fundamental role in the equalizing goal. It was his header that struck the crossbar, allowing Lucas Paquetá to capitalize on the rebound and score. Regarding the play, the defender celebrated his offensive contribution:
“I’m happy to have been involved in the goal. It’s something I like to be connected to. I’m glad I took advantage of it, the goal didn’t come off for me, but Paquetá capitalized. I’m extremely happy about the comeback and the way things have been going, the way I’ve been able to help the team and increasingly contribute to the build-up play and defense.”
The player concluded.
With their focus now divided, Flamengo returns to the field next Sunday (16) to face Mirassol in the 23rd round of the Brazilian Serie A. The match, which takes place at 6:30 PM (Brasília time) at the Maião stadium, will be crucial for maintaining their good run in the national tournament.
The match will be broadcast live by Record, Cazé TV, and Premiere.
Equipe M360
