Zico reveals ‘challenge’ he and Petkovic set Léo Pereira | OneFootball

What did Zico demand of Flamengo center back Léo Pereira?

Léo Pereira remains one of Flamengo’s standout players in 2026. In addition to keeping his starting spot in defense, the No. 4 is increasingly developing his set-piece ability. The greatest idol in Fla’s history, Zico revealed that, together with Petkovic, he pushed the defender about practicing free kicks.

Has Léo Pereira scored a free-kick goal for Flamengo?

Since joining Flamengo in the 2020 season, Léo Pereira has scored two free-kick goals for the club. The first came in 2024, in a 3-0 win over Madureira in the Carioca Championship. Then, in 2026, the center back hit a perfect free kick against Botafogo in the Brasileirão, sealing the Rubro-Negro win by the same scoreline.

What is Léo Pereira’s current situation?

An undisputed starter for Flamengo, Léo Pereira has made 15 appearances in 2026, scoring one goal. In addition, the center back’s strong performances earned him the first Brazil national team call-up of his career during the March FIFA international window.

It’s no surprise, then, that Flamengo is planning to open talks to renew Léo Pereira’s contract. Although the center back is tied to the club until December 2027, Rubro-Negro knows how important the player is and wants to protect itself from possible European interest.

What is Flamengo’s next match?

With Léo Pereira available, Flamengo face Independiente Medellín this Thursday (16). Kickoff is at 9:30 p.m. Brasília time at the Maracanã, in the second round of the Libertadores group stage.

So, as tradition dictates, Coluna do Fla will bring all the details of the match between Flamengo and Independiente Medellín through YouTube, the website, and social media. However, ESPN and Disney+ will broadcast the Libertadores match.

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