Sports
Flamengo Draws Estudiantes with Zero Shots on Target
Leonardo Jardim's side plays out a goalless draw in La Plata during a subpar Copa Libertadores performance.
Flamengo drew 0-0 against Estudiantes in Argentina in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinals. Despite a favorable aggregate setup for the return leg at the Maracanã, the team's display was marred by a complete lack of shots on target.
Flamengo played out a goalless draw against Estudiantes in La Plata, Argentina, in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinals. However, the Rio de Janeiro side's attacking output was nonexistent, finishing the match with zero shots on target against goalkeeper Muslera.
In the video above, Bernardo Ramos breaks down the team's main collective and individual issues on Argentine soil, pointing out that although the tie remains wide open for the return leg at the Maracanã, the overall performance fell far short of the squad's potential.
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Subdued Performance and Paquetá's Questioned Award
For Bernardo, the final scoreline flattered Flamengo's actual output on the pitch. The team struggled with playing out from the back and generating offensive chances, while also being troubled by defensive aerial balls that forced several saves from goalkeeper Rossi throughout the match.
Another heavily criticized point in the analysis was the selection of Paquetá as Player of the Match by CONMEBOL. The pundit argued the accolade made little sense given his technical mistakes and the risk of being sent off following harsh challenges in an away fixture. Among the few solid defensive performers, Bernardo highlighted Alexsandro's steady display.
Warning for the Second Leg and Leonardo Jardim's Decisions
Although Estudiantes has clear technical limitations—featuring players such as fullback Eros Mancuso—the Argentine side has already proven its competitive edge away from home in this tournament, having knocked out Universidad Católica and Corinthians on the road.
Bernardo noted that head coach Leonardo Jardim was slow to adjust the team's setup and called for greater sharpness in the attacking third, where figures like Bruno Henrique, Saúl, and Freitas struggled to make an impact. Building from the back without Jorginho on the pitch also exposed sluggishness in midfield transitions.
Focus on the Brazilian Championship
Ahead of the decisive second leg at the Maracanã, Flamengo shifts focus to the Brazilian Championship, where they are expected to field a full-strength lineup against Bahia on Sunday. The matchweek is considered strategic in the title race, given that Palmeiras travels to Curitiba to face Atlético Paranaense.
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