Dorival Júnior praises Flamengo after quick turnaround | OneFootball

Flamengo overcame a resilient América-MG side on Saturday winning 3-0 despite only having two and a half days to prepare.

Dorival Júnior’s side travelled to Atlético Mineiro late on Wednesday and the Rubo-Negro boss was quick to praise his squad following the victory.

“You can imagine what it’s like to try to recover, having to sleep at dawn and having to be on the field two and a half days later, facing a team that didn’t play in the middle of the week, that prepared a lot,” said the 60-year-old.

“It’s about injecting those who are physically better at the moment, and that they are prepared, trained, otherwise it’s no use putting them on the field.

“Players are starting to understand this philosophy and are feeling comfortable on the field because they are finding a way.”

Flamengo have endured a mixed season in the Brasileirão Série A this year, languishing in tenth place with 18 points from a possible 42 but Dorival has been encouraged by the signs of recent games.

“Even in the two defeats to Atlético-MG, we could already see that [the players are starting to find a way],” added Dorival.

“It’s a matter of time. We still need a lot of it, but each player is showing their ability, and with each game, we study the best formation. The important thing is to be ready.”

Flamengo return to action in the Copa Libertadores on Wednesday when they face Deportes Tolima.