Flamengo at full strength v Independiente del Valle; line-up | OneFootball

Flamengo is expected to return to the pitch at full strength against Independiente del Valle this Thursday, the 17th, at 9:30 p.m. (Brasília time), at Maracanã Stadium, for the second leg of the Copa Libertadores da América quarterfinals.

After managing the workload of part of the squad in the match against Corinthians, Leonardo Jardim is preparing to bring back his key players for the decisive clash. The Rubro-Negro side heads into the match with a 2-0 advantage, built in the first leg in Quito.

The result allows Flamengo to lose by one goal at the Maracanã and still secure qualification for the semifinals. If Independiente del Valle win by two goals, the spot will be decided on penalties.

Managing playing time was part of the coaching staff’s plan. The goal was to reduce the wear and tear on players who played an important role in the match in Ecuador and preserve the squad for the second game of the tie.

Altitude influenced the planning

The travel logistics were also part of Leonardo Jardim’s planning. Quito is located approximately 2,850 meters above sea level, a condition that increases the physical demands during the match and can intensify fatigue in the following days.

For that reason, Flamengo chose to spread the minutes among the players in the Brazilian Championship round. Now, with the Copa Libertadores da América decider at the Maracanã, the tendency is for the team to return to the lineup considered the manager’s first choice.

What is Flamengo’s lineup for the match against Independiente del Valle?

Coach Leonardo Jardim is expected to field Flamengo with: Agustín Rossi; Emerson Royal, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira and Ayrton Lucas; Erick Pulgar, Jorginho and Giorgian De Arrascaeta; Jorge Carrascal, Pedro and Samuel Lino.

Flamengo can even lose by one goal

The advantage earned in Ecuador changes the dynamic of the match. Flamengo do not need to win to advance and can manage the lead built in the first meeting. A 1-0 defeat, for example, would still send the Brazilian side through to the semifinals.

Meanwhile, an Independiente del Valle win by two goals would send the decision to penalties. If the Ecuadorians win by three goals or more, qualification will go to the visitors. In this way, Leonardo Jardim is preparing the team to secure the spot in normal time.

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