Royal earns Jardim’s trust in Libertadores after Cruzeiro draw | OneFootball

Flamengo’s 1-1 draw with Cruzeiro at the Mineirão on Wednesday highlighted Emerson Royal’s steady rise, even with Paquetá and Pedro in the spotlight. According to Globo.com, he has become Leonardo Jardim’s trusted option in the Libertadores.

The numbers back it up. Royal has started all seven matches in this year’s competition and played every minute.

Jardim said Libertadores games demand greater aggression and more duels. He explained that Varela is often used when Flamengo seek a more controlling, involving style, while Royal is extremely strong in combative contests. He added he is very satisfied with both options and views them as important.

Royal welcomed his run of games, saying it is building his confidence and that he is here to help Flamengo. Reflecting on the match, he described a very difficult contest with many counter-attacks and warned of Cruzeiro’s threat in transition. He noted Flamengo tried to impose themselves, conceded, then responded to level.

The second leg is scheduled for Wednesday 19 at 21:30 Brasília time at the Maracanã. The winner will reach the quarter-finals, and if it finishes level the tie will be decided on penalties.

Source: Globo.com

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