Pedro Set to Match Gabigol’s Historic Record in Flamengo’s Decisive Libertadores Clash
Flamengo is gearing up for a crucial clash this Wednesday (19) against Cruzeiro in the second leg of the Libertadores Round of 16. The match at the Maracanã holds special significance for forward Pedro, who is just two goals away from equaling Gabigol as the club’s all-time leading scorer in the continental competition.
Currently, the Mengão’s No. 9 has amassed 28 goals in the tournament, while the rubro-negro idol holds the record of 30 goals. Beyond this achievement, the center-forward also targets another significant goal: to reach Gabigol’s 31 goals to become the leading Brazilian scorer in Libertadores history — with only three more goals needed to reach the mark.
Goal-Scoring Form and High Morale
Pedro’s current form is favorable. Last Sunday (16), the forward shined in the 5-1 thrashing of Mirassol in the Brazilian Serie A, scoring twice and taking the top spot in the national competition’s scoring charts, with 14 goals, tied with Kevin Viveros of Athletico-PR.
The player stated after the victory:
“Now, we gain even more confidence for Wednesday’s match. Our purpose was this: to win here on their home ground and get close to Palmeiras. It will be another great duel against Cruzeiro, a great team; it will be difficult, but we need to work hard in these two days we have to arrive strong and get the result at home.”
Expectations for the Second Leg
Despite the confidence, the situation demands full attention from the coaching staff. According to M360 Team’s assessment, the forward is the technical reference of the squad, and his presence in the starting lineup is considered crucial.
In M360 Team’s analysis, head coach Leonardo Jardim should not repeat the tactical option of keeping the No. 9 on the bench, a strategy used in the first leg that harmed the team’s offensive sector.
The clash between Flamengo and Cruzeiro will take place at 9:30 PM Brasília time. The broadcast will be available on Globo, GE TV, and the streaming service Paramount+. The rubro-negra fans hope that Pedro’s brilliant form will help the team secure a spot in the quarterfinals and write another historic chapter in the pages of the Libertadores.
M360 Team
