Flamengo’s new signing under fire after Copa setback | OneFootball

Flamengo’s 1-0 defeat to Atlético Mineiro in the first leg of their Copa do Brasil round of 16 match ignited sharp criticism of new addition Gonzalo Plata, with journalist Renato Maurício Prado labeling the Ecuadorian winger a “scarily ineffective presence,” according to Lance.

Prado’s assessment came after a quiet showing from Plata, who started the match at Maracanã but struggled to impose himself in a Flamengo attack that ultimately failed to break down Atlético’s defense. The home side enjoyed the bulk of possession and pressed for much of the first half, but chances were limited; when Plata did find himself in a dangerous area before the break, his low finish was comfortably saved by Atlético goalkeeper Everson.

The game’s decisive moment arrived in the 65th minute. After Flamengo faltered in their build-up from the back, Atlético’s Cristian Pavón pounced to win the ball, setting up Cuello to cut inside and finish past Rossi, handing the visitors a slim advantage ahead of next week’s return leg at Arena MRV.

Despite Flamengo’s urgency and the introduction of attacking substitutes—most notably Samuel Lino, who nearly scored on his debut and injected pace into the left wing—the hosts could not find an equalizer. Lino’s impact was nearly decisive in added time, but his goal in stoppage time was chalked off for offside.

Plata’s subdued outing drew attention not only from pundits but also supporters, as the winger failed to capitalize on an opportunity to stake a claim in the competitive Flamengo forward line. Prado’s comments on social media emphasized frustration over Plata’s inability to contribute both on and off the ball, with the journalist describing the player’s performance as a “nullity” lacking in urgency and end product.

In addition to individual criticism, the match offered moments of controversy and old rivalries reignited. Early on, Atlético’s players demanded a penalty after a ball struck Léo Pereira’s arm, but referee Raphael Claus waved play on, a call that sparked debate online. Meanwhile, tension flared between Flamengo left-back Matías Viña and Atlético’s Rony—a subplot given their previous stint as teammates at Palmeiras—drawing further attention on social channels.

Coach Filipe Luís made three changes to the side that recently earned a league victory over Atlético, bringing in Evertton Araújo, Matheus Gonçalves, and Luiz Araújo. Even with the refreshed lineup, Flamengo struggled for cohesion and were vulnerable in transitions.

With the tie delicately poised ahead of the second leg, Flamengo face growing pressure to respond—not just as a collective, but with greater urgency from individual players like Plata who are now firmly under the microscope.

(Sources: Lance)

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