The Flamengo delegation left this Wednesday (26) for Lima, Peru, where they will compete on Saturday (29) in the Copa Libertadores final, against Palmeiras. The boarding was marked by a huge celebration by red and black fans – some even entered the squad bus through the roof – and ended in confusion.
The journey started at the team’s training center, Ninho do Urubu, in Vargem Grande, in the west zone of Rio de Janeiro. Two buses (one with players, the other with other members of the delegation) left at 2:15 pm towards Galeão airport, on Governador Island, in the north, where they arrived at 3:30 pm.
In the airport region, the escort was relaxed and allowed hundreds of red and black people to approach, who expressed their support to the athletes before the decision. The cast vehicle was surrounded, with chants from the fans, and dozens climbed onto the roof. At least ten used an emergency exit and got on the bus, a movement filmed by athletes.
“We understand the fans’ euphoria. It’s a remarkable moment for all of us and for the club itself. It’s remarkable for the history of Flamengo, in itself, and for the fans. He was there to support us, and we tried to enjoy the moment in the best possible way”, said defender Léo Pereira.
The end of the procession, however, was marked by confusion. Military police used rubber bullets and tear gas bombs to disperse the crowd. Meanwhile, the players were already inside Galeão, walking towards the gate from which their plane would depart towards the Peruvian capital, on a five and a half hour flight.
