Arboleda shines vs Flamengo, boosts confidence to lead São Paulo | OneFootball

Robert Arboleda is a reference point at São Paulo, but the start of 2026 was tough. With the worst defense in the Paulistão, the Tricolor’s defensive system had been the main target of criticism. However, the Ecuadorian’s performance against Flamengo, in Wednesday night’s Brasileirão opener, rekindles confidence in the experienced player.

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Even with the goal conceded at the start of the second half, Arboleda took on the role of “sheriff” at Morumbis in the victory over the current national champion. In a high-level duel, the defender was decisive in neutralizing key pieces of Flamengo’s attack, securing the Tricolor’s first three points in the national competition.

The numbers confirm his inspired night: the defender won 90% of his individual duels, totaling seven tackles and seven crucial clearances. Beyond his physical strength, Arboleda showed quality in building from the back, recording 88% passing accuracy (35 successful passes out of 40 attempts), helping the team’s defensive transition.

Although the win over Flamengo eases the pressure, São Paulo still faces an uncomfortable situation in the Campeonato Paulista. The team returns to the field this Saturday, again at Morumbis, for the classic against Santos. Victory is seen as a must to finally put the state championship crisis to rest and consolidate the progress shown midweek.

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