Estudiantes idol speaks frankly about Libertadores hopes against Flamengo | OneFootball

Desábato, 2009 Libertadores Champion with Estudiantes (ARG), Believes Argentine Fans Can Make a Difference

Flamengo and Estudiantes (ARG) are set to decide a spot in the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores da América on September 18 and 25. For most experts, Mengão is the clear favorite to advance. However, in the view of Leandro Desábato, former defender and champion of the competition in 2009 with the La Plata team, the first leg at Maracanã could shape the situation. Additionally, the ‘hermano’ believes in the power of the fans in the return match.

— Flamengo has a very good team. I thought Estudiantes would decide as visitors, but they decide here. I think if the result there is positive, they might have chances. When you pressure with the fans and make them feel the intensity, they don't like it. Estudiantes has good players who have had a decline, but they are important —, began Leandro Desábato.

— Estudiantes is very respected, considered a model to follow. The players who pass through there always say it's a different club, and that helps a lot. The fans convey this, and in the Cup (Libertadores) it's more noticeable. There's a reality, the Estudiantes fans make you feel like you're going to win, perhaps not having such a strong team —, added the former defender, to ‘Cielosports’.

HOW IS ESTUDIANTES PREPARING FOR THE GAMES AGAINST FLAMENGO?

Estudiantes will have the right to play the second match at home for having qualified first in Group A, the same as Botafogo. The La Plata team scored 12 points. For comparison, Mengão advanced with 11 in Group C. Subsequently, the Argentines faced Cerro Porteño (PAR) in the round of 16, with a 1-0 victory as visitors and a goalless draw at home.

WHEN ARE THE GAMES BETWEEN FLAMENGO AND ESTUDIANTES?

At Maracanã, the match takes place on September 18, starting at 9:30 PM (Brasília time). A week later, on 09/25, the clash happens at Estadio Jorge Luis Hirsch. The winner will face the qualifier from Racing (ARG) vs Vélez Sarsfield (ARG).

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