Flamengo began its participation in the group stage of the Copa Libertadores with a 2-0 victory over Cusco FC at the Garcilaso de la Vega Stadium. The Brazilian team displayed an excellent performance, exceeding expectations at high altitude. Leo Pereira, defender for the current champions, shared the strategy used to adapt to the local conditions. In statements to Globoesporte, he mentioned that the team slept in pressurized rooms and used oxygen tanks in the locker room. “We tried the maneuvers we had at hand. Any help is welcome. We were very focused and knew what we had to do,” he stated.
However, the match was not without its inconveniences. Some players complained about the lack of hot water in the stadium, which led several to shower at the hotel where they were staying. Giorgian De Arrascaeta commented: “Now no one can catch a cold, there are many matches ahead.” Although the venue had hot water, the system took time to heat up, complicating the situation. In the next round, Cusco FC will visit Estudiantes de La Plata, while Flamengo will host Medellín.
