Author: Vishwajit Sawant
Flamengo face a possible setback ahead of the first leg of their Copa do Brasil round of 16 tie against Fluminense, as striker Pedro did not train at the Ninho do Urubu on the eve of the match, raising doubts about his availability for the much-anticipated derby. The news was first reported by the “ge” portal.
Pedro’s absence stems from an injury suffered last Wednesday during the penalty shootout that resulted in Flamengo’s crucial win over Goiás at the Maracanã. The following day, it was confirmed that he had suffered a muscle injury to the back of his right thigh.
Since then, Pedro has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation in an attempt to recover in time for the Copa do Brasil match. However, his current condition is far from ideal, and his inclusion in the squad is likely to be a challenge.
Meanwhile, Everton Cebolinha, who recently felt discomfort in his left ankle after a sprain during Flamengo’s 3-2 win over Bahia at the Arena Fonte Nova, has been making progress with his recovery. The striker took part in the latest training sessions under the guidance of coach Jorge Sampaoli and could be called up to the national team.
Matheus França, who has successfully recovered from a knee injury, should be included in the list compiled by the Argentine coach for Tuesday’s Fla-Flu.
Fortunately for Flamengo, midfielder Gerson has been training normally with the team and should be available for Jorge Sampaoli’s squad. The full-backs Filipe Luís and Varela also took part in the training session without any problems.
However, the club received unfavorable news regarding David Luiz, as tests revealed a small injury to the back of his right thigh, which has ruled him out of the next derby against Fluminense.
In addition, goalkeeper Matheus Cunha has an inflammation in his right hip and is feeling pain that requires further assessment before his possible participation in the match against Fluminense can be determined.
With the match approaching, Flamengo are struggling with injury problems, hoping for quick recoveries and a fully fit team for the important Copa do Brasil clash against their arch-rivals.