Filipe Luís delays Flamengo line-up for Intercontinental semi-final | OneFootball

Flamengo coach Filipe Luís has chosen to keep the team’s lineup a mystery for the Intercontinental Cup semifinal against Egypt’s Pyramids this Saturday (12/13). The decision regarding the starting eleven will depend directly on the players’ physical recovery, especially considering the marathon of matches the Rubro-Negro have faced, having recently played in major finals to win the Libertadores and the Brasileirão.

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In a press conference held this Friday, the coach admitted that the next few hours will be crucial to decide the team and he will not reveal the lineup in advance. “We have today (Friday) and part of tomorrow (Saturday) to decide (the formation). Our team has players over 30 years old. Three days of recovery is not enough,” explained Filipe Luís.

Physical wear as a decisive factor

Flamengo last played on Wednesday (12/10), when they secured a 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul. In contrast, Pyramids had more time to prepare, with their starters playing only on December 6. This difference in rest time was pointed out by the coach as something to consider.

“We need to count on a competitive, solid, and fresh team,” emphasized the coach, highlighting the need to balance performance with the players’ physical condition to face the Egyptian challenge.

Another important factor for Flamengo could be the return of striker Pedro, who has not played since October 22 due to various physical issues. The top scorer trained with the squad this Thursday and could be used against the Egyptian side. “My expectation is that he will get some minutes,” said Filipe Luís.

Clash decides spot in the final against PSG

The match between Flamengo and Pyramids will determine who advances to the grand final of the Intercontinental Cup. The winner will face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), current Champions League titleholder, in pursuit of the competition’s trophy. The final is scheduled for December 17.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.