Flamengo and Cruzeiro to decide Libertadores last-16, Artur Jorge calls it a final | OneFootball

Flamengo and Cruzeiro will settle their Libertadores last-16 tie at the Maracanã on Wednesday 19 at 21:30 Brasília time, after a 1-1 first leg at the Mineirão. If the return finishes level, the quarter-final place will be decided on penalties.

According to Coluna Do Fla, Cruzeiro head coach Artur Jorge has framed the match as a final and spoke of a testing run after defeating Corinthians in the 23rd round of the Brasileirão at the Neo Química Arena.

He said it is a highly testing period, but that winning can mask fatigue and bring different energy, making teams emotionally stronger. He urged ambition and intensity, calling it their first Libertadores final.

Cruzeiro are juggling the Brasileirão, Libertadores and Copa do Brasil, and injuries have reduced options. Midfielder Matheus Henrique is unavailable.

Flamengo have shifted focus to the competition. The winners will meet whoever advances from Tolima against Independiente del Valle.

The report added that the workload is affecting everyone and that Cruzeiro supporters would be unhappy had the club already been knocked out of a competition. It also noted Flamengo’s Copa do Brasil exit was not a priority and that nine days of training have improved their performance.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”