Estudiantes idol speaks frankly about Libertadores hopes against Flamengo | OneFootball

Desábato, 2009 Libertadores champion with Estudiantes (ARG), believes the Argentine fans can make a difference

Flamengo and Estudiantes (ARG) are set to decide a spot in the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores da América on September 18 and 25. For most experts, Mengão is the clear favorite to advance. However, in the view of Leandro Desábato, former defender and champion of the competition in 2009 with the La Plata team, the first leg at Maracanã could set the stage. Additionally, the ‘hermano’ believes in the power of the fans in the return match.

— Flamengo has a very good team. I thought Estudiantes would decide as visitors, but they decide here. I think if the result there is positive, there could be chances. When you pressure with the fans and make them feel the rigor, they don't like it. Estudiantes has good players who have had a decline, but they are important —, began Leandro Desábato.

— Estudiantes is highly respected, considered a model to follow. Players who pass through there always say it's a different club, and that helps a lot. The fans convey this, and in the Cup (Libertadores) it's more noticeable. There is a reality, the Estudiantes fans make you feel like you're going to win, maybe not having such a strong team —, added the former defender, to ‘Cielosports’.

HOW IS ESTUDIANTES PREPARING FOR THE MATCHES AGAINST FLAMENGO?

Estudiantes will have the right to play the second match at home for having qualified first in Group A, the same as Botafogo. The La Plata team scored 12 points. For comparison, Mengão advanced with 11 in Group C. Subsequently, the Argentinians faced Cerro Porteño (PAR) in the round of 16, with a 1-0 victory as visitors and a goalless draw at home.

WHEN ARE THE MATCHES BETWEEN FLAMENGO AND ESTUDIANTES?

At Maracanã, the match takes place on September 18, starting at 9:30 PM (Brasília time). A week later, on 09/25, the clash happens at the Jorge Luis Hirsch Stadium. The winner will face the qualifier from Racing (ARG) vs Vélez Sarsfield (ARG).

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.