After Flamengo defeated Palmeiras 1-0 in the Copa Libertadores final, Flamengo manager Filipe Luís attended a press conference and revealed that he had read the opposing manager’s book before the game. By learning about the opponent’s tactical philosophy and way of thinking through the book, his team ultimately secured the victory.
Filipe Luís said: “Based on my understanding of tactical nuances and referencing the troubles Palmeiras caused us at the Maracanã Stadium before, I realized they tried to focus on exploiting the spaces behind our full-backs and transition moments. Both sides had clear strategies. Flamengo usually tends to possess the ball, trying to control the game rhythm and implement a high press. The spaces we exposed to the opponent were mainly counter-attacking opportunities. They have extremely fast and decisive players like Vítor Roque and Franco López.”
“Our coaching staff analyzes the possible game plans the opponent might formulate against us. Obviously, Palmeiras is good at utilizing certain specific scenarios, which precisely target the frequent mistakes we made in recent games. Every manager has their own arrangements.”
“Understanding the way of thinking of opposing manager Abel definitely helped. Of course, I have read his book and watched his interviews, which helps to comprehend his football philosophy. But on the pitch, it is the players who truly implement the tactical plan and execute the instructions. Victory and defeat often hang by a thread. Today, the victory belongs to us.”
“In 2021 (note: the two teams also met in the final that year, and Filipe Luís, who was still a player at the time, lost the game), the victory could have belonged to us too. Today, they actually had a chance to equalize the score. But when I looked at this group of players, I felt they were destined to make history. They have always longed to leave a championship photo on the club’s wall, and now they have done it. They will go down in history as legends of the club.”
