Analysis: between exploits in attack and scares in defense, Flamengo passes, but continues in search of balance | Flamengo

Flamengo’s classification in the quarterfinals of the Copa do Brasil was won with a script that insists on repeating itself and leaves the fans apprehensive about what to expect from the team against a stronger rival than Atlético-PR. On Wednesday night, the 3-2 was enough for a smooth qualifying in Maracana.

Starting on the good side, Flamengo was smart and efficient in finding spaces in a tight defense with two lines of four at the entrance to the area. Matheuzinho was fundamental for this, managing to print the same intensity that Isla presents.

The young man had already given good alternatives to the tables with Everton Ribeiro when he was found at full speed by Aaron in the right hall. The fast and low crossing was dominated by Pedro. Good goal!

It didn’t take long and there was Matheuzinho again giving an option and demonstrating repertoire. Overtaking, now inside, and new assistance for the center forward.

Bids that exemplify not only the goals, but well-executed solutions by Flamengo throughout the match. In the second half, the left-back was more shot by Filipe Luís, and the most important thing was to spin the ball with speed from side to side, find spaces and escape from the crowd in the middle.

Flamengo scored three goals, had another annulled and at least two very clear chances that they stopped at Santos. Quality production and even routine for a team that has scored 46 goals in 25 games since the arrival of the Dome. The problem is in the imbalance.

This team is the same one that was leaked 34 times in this period. A team that returned to give many chances to the penultimate position of Brasileirão, which yielded important offensive pieces in the Maracana game.

Atlético, who had already stopped on Hugo’s spectacular night in Curitiba, finished nine times, scored two goals and freaked out on high-scoring plays or speed advances. The defense once again had difficulties getting the ball out and reducing the problem to individual hesitations by Arão, Thiago Maia or Hugo does not seem to be the solution.

Names change, errors continue and Flamengo continues to be a team that allows rivals to get very close to their area. Spaces often create one-on-one disputes and it wasn’t just the wrong passes that caused Athletico to finish nine times.

At many times, the marking of the offensive middleman only overshadows and the team backs down on the opponent’s actions. The further away from aggressive combat, the less chance of correcting so-called errors.

In a cut of the last four games, Inter, Atlético, São Paulo and again Atlético demanded a lot from Hugo, demanded a lot from the defense and exposed weaknesses. The feats of the attack will not always be enough, and as the season progresses, mistakes cost more.