Estudiantes official responds to Flamengo over Libertadores final

The controversy between Flamengo and Estudiantes, born during the Copa Libertadores semi-final, shows no sign of abating for the clubs. After the Brazilian club's elimination, a dispute has arisen between the two teams over qualification for the final. Estudiantes' finance secretary, Juan Martín Ongay, has responded to the comments made by Flamengo coach Leonardo, according to Gazeta Esportiva.

A scathing response

Ongay reacted to Leonardo's remarks concerning the final of the competition. In a statement reported by Gazeta Esportiva, the Argentine official invited his counterpart to attend the final if that were his wish. This response comes amid an already tense context, marked by several exchanges between the two clubs.

The Marcos Rojo controversy

At the heart of the dispute is the presence of player Marcos Rojo during the semi-final. According to UOL Esporte, Flamengo contested Rojo's clearance one day before the match against Estudiantes. The Brazilian club submitted a petition to Conmebol, as reported by Terra. According to the same source, Conmebol initially blocked the player before releasing him for the tie.

Flamengo's explanations

Faced with criticism, Flamengo published an official statement on Saturday, October 24, to explain their approach. The club clarified its position regarding the controversy over Marcos Rojo's presence, according to Terra. For his part, the Estudiantes coach had already reacted, stating that his team won on the pitch, according to UOL Esporte.

Estudiantes' response

Estudiantes' management formally responded to Flamengo's representation, stating that there was no infringement, according to Terra. The Argentine club defends its qualification for the final. The Estudiantes coach described this experience as "fabulous" after eliminating Flamengo, as reported by UOL Esporte. A statement that resonates with Ongay's response to the Brazilian coach.

This affair, which goes beyond the sporting sphere, illustrates the persistent tensions between the two clubs after a hard-fought semi-final. The exchanges between directors and coaches continue, fuelling a saga whose outcome may be decided off the pitch, with the Copa Libertadores final in sight.