Flamengo Faces Roster Crisis in Crucial Away Match
Flamengo’s final away game of the season takes them to the Heriberto Hülse Stadium, where they’ll face off against Criciúma this Wednesday at 8 pm (Brasília time). Head coach Filipe Luís faces a daunting task as a staggering 14 players are unavailable for this penultimate round of the Brasileirão.
This massive wave of absences, a culmination of injuries and suspensions, will force Luís to field a significantly depleted lineup against Criciúma. Players like Matheus Cunha and Ayrton Lucas, who have seen limited playing time this season, are likely to be thrust into starting roles.
A Lineup Marked by Absences
The Brazilian champions will be missing key players across the field. Rossi, Léo Pereira, and Alex Sandro are sidelined due to troublesome shoulder, thigh, and calf pains, respectively.
Adding to the injury woes, midfielders Gerson and Nicolás de la Cruz received their third yellow cards last match, bringing automatic suspensions.
Adding further salt to the wound, Gabigol, though not suspended, has been left off the traveling squad due to a lingering yellow card accumulation and the risk of missing the pivotal farewell game at Maracanã next Sunday.
Beyond these notable absences, Flamengo will be without Pedro, Arrascaeta, Viña, and Everton Cebolinha through injury. Four other players, Dyogo Alves, Cleiton, Lorran, and Carlinhos, have been granted early vacation.
A Flicker of Hope: Luiz Araújo Returns
Despite the bleak outlook, there’s a glimmer of hope for Flamengo with the return of Luiz Araújo. Sidelined since August 15th following a draw with Vasco, Araújo was seen on the bench during the Copa do Brasil final but hadn’t reached full fitness.
After the title celebrations, number 7 focused on regaining his strength and is now 100% ready to contribute. His return adds some much-needed firepower to the already depleted offense.
How to Catch the Action
Football fans eager to witness this crucial clash can tune in via live broadcast on Flamengo’s YouTube channel, “Fla’s column.” Rafa Penido will provide captivating commentary, joined by expert analysis from Tulio Rodrigues, with Rodrigo Lima and Simon Ledo delivering firsthand reports from the stadium.
Additionally, the pay-per-view channel Premiere will broadcast the match live throughout Brazil, offering fans nationwide the opportunity to witness this potentially pivotal encounter.
How many players will Flamengo be missing due to injury and suspension for the match against Criciúma?
## Flamengo Crippled by Absences Ahead of Criciúma Clash
**[HOST]** Welcome back to Sports Central! Tonight, we’re joined by veteran football journalist, Rodrigo Pereira, to discuss the seemingly insurmountable challenge facing Flamengo in their upcoming match against Criciúma. Rodrigo, thanks for joining us.
**[RODRIGO PEREIRA]** Thanks for having me.
**[HOST]** Let’s jump right in. Flamengo is facing a veritable injury crisis as they prepare for this crucial away game. Can you give our viewers a sense of just how bad the situation is?
**[RODRIGO PEREIRA]** It’s dire, to say the least. Filipe Luís will be without a staggering 14 players for this match due to a combination of injuries and suspensions. We’re talking about key players, starters who are crucial to Flamengo’s attacking and defensive strategies.
**[HOST]** That’s astounding. How will this impact Flamengo’s chances against a motivated Criciúma team?
**[RODRIGO PEREIRA]** It puts them at a massive disadvantage. We’re likely to see several players who’ve had limited playing time this season thrown into starting roles.
Players like Matheus Cunha and Ayrton Lucas will be called upon to step up, but it’s a tough ask against a team fighting for precious points.
**[HOST]** What can we expect from Flamengo tactically? Will Luis be forced to significantly alter his game plan?
**[RODRIGO PEREIRA]** Absolutely. He’ll have to rely on a more conservative approach, focusing on solid defense and counter-attacking opportunities.
This is definitely not the game Flamengo would have wanted at this stage of the season.
**[HOST]** Certainly not. This could be a defining moment for Flamengo’s title hopes. Rodrigo Pereira, thanks for sharing your insights. We’ll be following this match closely.
**[RODRIGO PEREIRA]** My pleasure.