Leonardo Jardim denies friction with Pedro after Flamengo victory

Flamengo coach Leonardo Jardim addressed the team's 2-1 victory over Red Bull Bragantino, which extended the club's lead in the Brasileirão standings. The win concluded a demanding period of four matches played within ten days.

Jardim dismissed reports of tension between himself and striker Pedro following the player's visible dissatisfaction when being substituted in the second half. The coach explained that the decision was a tactical necessity to bring on Bruno Henrique to manage physical duels. Jardim noted that while Pedro naturally wanted to remain on the pitch, the substitution was pre-planned to manage the squad's fatigue.

Despite the victory, Jardim highlighted the team's struggle with efficiency, noting that Flamengo created numerous opportunities but failed to convert them, a pattern also observed in their recent Libertadores match against Independiente del Valle.