During the press conference held on the eve of the Libertadores final between Palmeiras and Flamengo, Friday (11/28), coach Abel Ferreira seemed confident and ready to win. The team will take the field this Saturday (11/29) at 6 p.m.
Abel Ferreira, who played in two previous finals with Palmeiras, highlighted the greatness of the Copa Libertadores. For him, despite the complex stage in the Brazilian League, the moment is to turn the switch and remember that Verdão has deservedly reached the final.
“It is the biggest tournament in South America and this is what we are here for,” the coach said. “We are focused and ready to play from the first second to the second to achieve victory.”
It was reflective. “If you asked me, when I came five years ago, if I was going to compete in the Copa Libertadores three times, no, I know how difficult it would be. I’m lucky, and I’m very grateful to be a coach at Palmeiras. “We have built a very strong relationship over these five years.”
3 photos
Conditional closure.
1 of 3Disclosure/Instagram @libertadoresbr2 of 3
Abel Ferreira, from Palmeiras
Pedro H. Tish/Getty Images 3 of 3Raul Cifuentes/Getty Images)
Appel added: “In the five years I spent at Palmeiras, we played 15 final matches and won 10 titles. The relationship with the fans is very strong, and I can say that I feel this mutual affection. Whatever happens in the future, these moments that I lived here will remain forever in my memory and in my heart.”
The coach also spoke about the preparation for the match, especially regarding the recent decision to leave 11 players in Sao Paulo before traveling to Porto Alegre. Appel explained that the situation of not announcing the lineup in advance is not a new thing and pointed to similar decisions that were taken in past finals.
“I think Flamengo knows Palmeiras well, and we also know how they play. The two teams know each other a lot. The details are what will make the difference.”
Brazil x Libertadores
After five defeats in a row, regarding the impact of the Brazilian tournament, Appel preferred to downplay the comparison.
Abel said: “The Brazilian Championship is one thing, and the Libertadores is another thing. Defeat, draw, 10 wins, 30 goals scored. We reached the Libertadores final with merit, consistency, talent and great effort as well. This is what we are here today to decide. Without a doubt, the biggest tournament in South America is the Libertadores and this is what we are here for.”
Regarding other tournaments, he also mentioned that the team went through several upheavals throughout the year. “It was an exciting year, a Paulista final. A tough encounter against a big rival. A big overhaul for our team. And this year, yes, it was the year of the biggest overhaul,” he said.