Flamengo’s Copa do Brasil hopes rest on returning stars | OneFootball

Flamengo have kicked off preparations for their vital Copa do Brasil clash against Atlético Mineiro, holding their first training session of the week at Ninho do Urubu, according to Lance. The Rio club must overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit in Wednesday’s return fixture in Belo Horizonte to keep their cup campaign alive.

Colombian midfielder Jorge Carrascal, newly introduced to the squad, featured in his first group session after being formally presented at the club’s training facility. Although Carrascal quickly mixed with the likes of fellow Spanish-speakers Viña and Varela, he will not be eligible for the midweek tie as the registration deadline for the Copa do Brasil’s round of 16 passed prior to his arrival.

Injury updates from Monday’s training were largely positive for manager Filipe Luís. Michael, recently sidelined by an ankle problem, participated fully and is expected to return to the matchday squad. Cebolinha is also poised for selection following his own spell out. Giorgian De Arrascaeta, who was substituted at halftime during the 1-1 draw with Ceará after feeling discomfort in his left thigh, underwent assessment and has not suffered a muscle injury; he is set to be available for Wednesday.

Arrascaeta’s presence will be crucial, given Flamengo’s recent reliance on his creative spark. As reported by UOL and Lance, the team struggled for rhythm and openings at Ceará once the Uruguayan playmaker left the pitch. Samuel Lino, the club’s high-profile new signing, made his first start in that fixture but found chances limited; his sharp second-half shot brought the best from opposing goalkeeper Bruno Ferreira, but otherwise he had little influence.

Flamengo have shown attacking inconsistency since their busy transfer window. The squad, enhanced by signings such as Emerson Royal and Saúl Ñíguez, continues to search for its best blend, something highlighted by back-to-back matches without victory. The return of several attackers from injury may boost Filipe Luís’ tactical options ahead of the cup decider.

To reach the quarterfinals, Flamengo need at least a one-goal win to take the tie to penalties; a victory by two goals or more secures direct passage to the next round.

With limited training time before Wednesday, attention will be on the final session to integrate returning players and finalize the starting lineup. The challenge for Filipe Luís is to find a mix that can reignite Flamengo’s attack and deliver the result required in Belo Horizonte. The squad’s response—both tactically and physically—will be under close scrutiny as they look to prolong their Copa do Brasil journey.

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