Domènec Torrent explains his second-half substitutions after defeat | OneFootball

Life at Flamengo did not begin kindly for new manager Domènec Torrent as they suffered a 1-0 season-opening defeat at the hands of Atlético Mineiro on Sunday afternoon.

A first-half own goal conceded by Filipe Luís was the only thing that separated the two sides as the defending champions were only able to put two of their 17 shots on target.

Torrent received some criticism for finishing the match without Everton Ribeiro, Arrascaeta and Gerson, opting to play with five forwards: Gabigol, Bruno Henrique, Pedro, Vitinho, and Michael.

After the match, Torrent explained his controversial decisions.

“I know the qualities of the players perfectly, but the second half they defended themselves with five players.

“I wanted to play openly with five attackers because we are Flamengo and we want to win. A 1-1 draw is not enough.”

Next up for Flamengo is a trip to newly-promoted Atlético Goianiense on Wednesday. The match will be their first in Brazil’s top-flight since 2017.