Samuel Lino reveals fatigue, focuses on free week for Flamengo to bounce back
Flamengo ended a three-month unbeaten streak after being defeated 2-1 by Cruzeiro at Mineirão last Saturday. After a dominant first half, where they even led 1-0 and created numerous opportunities, the red-and-black team couldn’t maintain the pace in the second half and allowed the comeback.
Leaving the field, forward Samuel Lino admitted that the accumulation of games and the resulting fatigue were decisive factors in the outcome. However, the player made a point of clarifying that he did not ask to be substituted.
Physical and Mental Fatigue on the Field
Samuel Lino, who played an important role defending the left flank alongside Ayrton Lucas, was substituted in the 17th minute of the second half. Leonardo Jardim‘s entry aimed to inject fresh energy into the team. The forward detailed that the weariness was not limited to the physical, but also affected the mental aspect due to the recent marathon of matches, including decisive clashes in the Libertadores. This fatigue, he said, led to technical errors and loss of focus at crucial moments.
We know the schedule is tight, and after so many consecutive games, fatigue sets in. But I didn’t ask to come off; the coach decided to take me out to give more strength to the team. The important thing now is for us to recover.
Week Off for Recovery and Derby Focus
With the defeat, Flamengo remains in second place in the Brazilian Serie A with 45 points. The team will now have an entire week without games to dedicate themselves to training and physical and mental recovery. The goal is to replicate the positive performance achieved after a similar period of rest earlier, which propelled a winning streak. The main focus will be preparation for the anticipated derby against Botafogo, scheduled for next Sunday, at 4 PM, at Maracanã, valid for the 25th round of the national competition. The team aims to return to winning ways and maintain its position in the standings.
Equipe M360
