Leonardo Jardim assesses Flamengo’s draw at Mineirão and justifies tactical selection
Coach Leonardo Jardim expressed approval for the 1-1 scoreline achieved by Flamengo against Cruzeiro, in a game played at Mineirão on the night of August 12, 2026, valid for the first leg of the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores. After the match, the coach classified the result as favorable, but warned of the need for caution in the second leg, which will be held at Maracanã.
Jardim commented on the balance of the match, citing data that pointed to parity between the two good-quality teams. He reinforced that the draw was positive, but that the definition will come in the second meeting. The coach noted that other games in the round also ended in equality, emphasizing the importance of a solid performance at home and continued attention to the Cruzeiro team.
Asked about the decisions in the initial formation, which generated several questions among fans before the game, especially with the presence of Pedro, Paquetá and Varela on the bench, the Rio team commander defended his choices and praised the depth of the red and black squad.
On the same topic: Troubled reunions between Gerson and Jardim raise tension in Cruzeiro x Flamengo for the Libertadores at Mineirão
He explained that the strategy adopted did not deviate much from what had been practiced in the Libertadores, with many of these athletes playing regularly in the competition and others being used in the national championship. For Jardim, the essential thing is for the team to have options that guarantee competitiveness in each match, seeking the results that the fans and he, as coach, want.
Main explanations about Flamengo’s choices on the field
Addressing the competition on the right flank, Leonardo Jardim stated that both Varela and Royal are high quality players. He detailed that Varela is often chosen for games that demand greater involvement and possession of the ball, while Royal stands out in Libertadores matches, generally more intense and with many duels. The coach was completely satisfied with both alternatives, considering them fundamental pieces.
Regarding the changes made during the game, Jardim indicated that the objective was to refresh the offensive sector. He mentioned that Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique were showing some wear and tear, and the entry of players like Pedro and Paquetá (although Paquetá was still recovering his rhythm after inactivity) was vital. The coach highlighted that the equalizing goal came from the entry of one of these athletes, highlighting that the change was in the pieces and not in the tactical scheme.
Regarding the hostile reception from Cruzeiro fans, Leonardo Jardim expressed special affection for the Minas Gerais club’s fans. He regretted that some people had incited great hatred against his figure, considering that it is simpler to run away from the truth than to face it. The coach remained calm and highlighted the importance of support from Flamengo fans present at the stadium, asking for the same engagement at Maracanã.
He also clarified Carrascal’s warm-up at the beginning of the match, stating that the player needed to warm up because Lino had suffered a blow and was experiencing difficulties, but that his teammate was able to return to the game later.
More on this story: Flamengo reacts with the entry of Pedro and Paquetá and secures a crucial draw against Cruzeiro in the Libertadores
Regarding the options on the left flank, Jardim highlighted his confidence in young Johnny, a player who he believes has a promising future at Flamengo. However, he considered that a game of the intensity of the confrontation against Cruzeiro would not be the ideal time to launch such a young athlete, as a mistake could negatively impact his career. He stated that Johnny will be used in other opportunities, as has already occurred in Portugal with good performance.
Leonardo Jardim’s analysis of Cruzeiro’s marking and difficulties
When commenting on Cruzeiro’s individual marking, Jardim noted that, in modern football, teams study their opponents deeply. He explained that Cruzeiro’s strategy of man-to-man marking in the midfield and defensive line made Flamengo’s possession of the ball difficult, especially for the more technical players. However, the coach highlighted that the red and black team managed to create mobility and change positions, which allowed them to open spaces and maintain possession.
See Also
China’s Shenzhou-23 mission reveals views of Earth from Tiangong station
Manchester City receives third offer from Barcelona for Rodri worth between €60 million and €80 million
Former boxer Prichard Colón dies aged 33 after long battle with brain injury
Asked about the fairness of the draw, the coach reiterated his vision of a balanced game, with Flamengo presenting a slightly better performance. He praised the “great goal” of player Arroyo do Cruzeiro, recognizing the quality of the move that led to the score. Jardim mentioned that, after Cruzeiro’s goal, Flamengo looked for a comeback and managed to draw, also highlighting the efficiency of the opponent’s counterattack.
Regarding the second leg, Jardim considered the question complex, as his immediate priority is the Brazilian Championship match, which will take place in three days. He emphasized that Flamengo closed the gap to Palmeiras and cannot approach the next championship game in a casual manner. The focus, according to the coach, should first be on the next championship challenge before thinking about the decisive clash against Cruzeiro.
Learn more: Flamengo x Cruzeiro: Psychic reveals which team will be champions of today’s Libertadores game
He also stated that Pedro and Paquetá are considered starters, but stressed that Flamengo has “15 or 16 players” who can occupy that position. The decision on who starts each match depends on the moment, tactical choice and analysis of the opponent. Jardim assured that, if some start, others will enter during the game, and vice versa, with his current concern focused on the game against Mirassol.
Jardim addresses the situation of Pedro and Paquetá as options in the red and black squad
Regarding the absences of Luiz Araújo and Wallace Yan, the coach informed that Luiz Araújo has been away due to a physical problem for around four or five weeks, having started training just two days before the match, without being able to play. Wallace Yan’s absence was a technical decision, since, with all the players available, it is necessary to make choices and leave some out.
Regarding his relationship with the Cruzeiro athletes, Leonardo Jardim mentioned that he maintains very close contact, something that had already been observed in the first game at Maracanã and also with the technical committee and employees of the Minas Gerais club. He reinforced that he has a good relationship with the board, but pointed out that incorrect information is transmitted to fans. The coach, however, avoided criticizing the fans, understanding that they often believe in what is told to them.
Jardim reiterated his appreciation for Cruzeiro, stating that the club will always have a special place in his heart. He regretted how the events unfolded, but preferred to position himself as the “harmed” rather than harm other people with whom he has a special relationship.
Learn more: From executioner to idol: Arrascaeta tries to write a missing chapter in the story with Flamengo
When asked if he had “abdicated” Cruzeiro, Jardim corrected himself, saying that “both parties abdicated”. He commented that it is easy to spread the idea that he was the only one who gave up, when, in fact, it was a mutual decision.
When comparing Tite’s Cruzeiro with the current one, the coach noted that they are teams with different game models. He described today’s Cruzeiro as a team with more individual marking, different from Tite’s style. For Jardim, the current team shows more confidence and organization, which is reflected in the good recent results in the championship, Libertadores and Copa. He highlighted that important players from that time, such as Gerson, Matheus, Kaio and Fabrício, continue to be valuable. Thus, although the styles are different, competitiveness remains high, reminiscent of the intense game at Maracanã.
Jardim spoke about possession of the ball as a crucial element in building the game. He stated that Flamengo currently tends to have more possession, in part because opponents retreat their lines. He recalled that, upon arriving at Cruzeiro, the club was going through a difficult moment, where opponents did not show respect, attacked openly and left spaces. The coach explained that, at the time, his team took advantage of these gaps. He concluded that, although he still looks for depth and sees the wingers attacking, there are players who can also maintain possession of the ball, adapting their styles to the situations they face.
Regarding the old statement that he would only coach Cruzeiro in Brazil, Jardim clarified that that statement was linked to the expectation of staying longer in the country, which did not materialize. He stated that the parties decided not to continue and that their initial intention was not to return to Brazil, but rather to remain in the Middle East. However, the opportunity to coach Flamengo arose, and, in his words, “no one can say no to Flamengo”.
He concluded that Flamengo is, like it or not, the biggest club in South America, and that’s why he accepted a return to Brazil. Jardim apologized for going back on his word about not returning, but reiterated that he is calm about other issues, as he knows exactly what happened and that, sometimes, “it’s better to put it aside and close your eyes.”
