First training in Lima for Flamengo
The Brazilian team trained for the first time in the Peruvian capital at the National Sports Village (Videna), the headquarters of the Peruvian national team. Their practice field was surrounded by black tarps to prevent any kind of spying from neighboring houses.
This level of secrecy had not even occurred in the most important matches that the Peruvian team had to prepare for on the same field, always exposed to the curious looks of the neighboring residents whose buildings are just meters away from the training grounds.
At least a dozen Flamengo supporters appeared on the balconies near the bunker set up by the team. Despite the tarps blocking their view of the training, they decorated the rudimentary houses with red and black flags.
'El Hincha Israelita', the most famous fan of the Peruvian national team, was also among the club's supporters. He wanted to accompany the Brazilian players in practice with his giant horn that he had already played in Brazil during the Copa America.
Flamengo's practice was only open to journalists during the first fifteen minutes, during which the team, led by Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, warmed up with all players in apparent good condition.
The Mengão will train again at the same location on Friday before conducting field reconnaissance at the Monumental Stadium in the afternoon. The first single-match final in the history of the Copa Libertadores will be held there on Saturday.
This will be Flamengo's second final in its history and the first in 38 years since the one they won in 1981 against Chilean team Cobreloa. On the other hand, River Plate is aiming for its fifth title in the top continental competition and the second consecutive one after winning last year's Superclasico against Boca Juniors in Madrid.