Libertadores: Cruzeiro's group-stage run before Flamengo clash | OneFootball

Cruzeiro advanced to the Libertadores knockout stage as the runner-up in Group D

The draw held by Conmebol this Friday (29) set up the clash between Flamengo and Cruzeiro in the Round of 16 of the Libertadores. With that, the Nation is already starting to analyze the next challenge. To keep fans fully informed, Coluna do Fla now breaks down how the Minas Gerais side performed in the group stage.

WHO ARE CRUZEIRO IN THE LIBERTADORES?

The Minas Gerais side advanced to the knockout stage as the runner-up in Group D, with 11 points from three wins, two draws, and one loss. Behind Universidad Católica (CHI) in the standings, Cruzeiro had a group stage marked by highs and lows.

The team started its campaign inconsistently but picked up momentum in the final stretch. In short, the high point of that recovery was the 4-0 thrashing of Barcelona de Guayaquil (EQU) at Mineirão.

HOW DOES FLAMENGO ENTER THE KNOCKOUT STAGE?

While Cruzeiro was inconsistent, Flamengo dominated the opening stage of the competition. The Rubro-Negro secured the best overall record of the group stage, finishing top of Group A unbeaten with 16 points.

The team coached by Leonardo Jardim earned five wins and just one draw, without suffering a single defeat. In addition, the Most Beloved showed attacking strength and defensive solidity, scoring 14 goals and conceding only two, resulting in a positive goal difference of 12.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN POINTS OF ATTENTION?

Although they were inconsistent against teams like Boca Juniors (ARG) and Universidad Católica itself, Cruzeiro ended the group stage as an opponent that demands attention. Midfielder Matheus Pereira stood out as the team’s main attacking reference, finishing the stage as one of the competition’s top scorers.

The player was decisive in Cruzeiro’s qualification, scoring twice in the rout over Barcelona (EQU), making him the main name to be monitored by Flamengo’s coaching staff in preparation for the matchup.

WHEN WILL THE MATCHES BE?

Flamengo will face Cruzeiro in the battle for a place in the quarterfinals. The first leg will take place at Mineirão in the week of August 11, while the decisive clash will be at the Maracanã in the week of August 20. As usual, Coluna do Fla follows every step of Mengão in search of a sixth title.

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