Fluminense Faces Once Caldas in Crucial Sul-Americana Opener

MANIZALES, Colombia — In a pivotal clash for both teams, Fluminense will face Once Caldas in the opening match of the Conmebol Sul-Americana group phase on Tuesday, April 1, at 9:30 p.m. local time at Estadio Palogrande.

Fluminense enters the match amid turmoil, having recently parted ways with head coach Mano Menezes following a 2-0 defeat to Fortaleza in their Brazilian Serie A opener. The club sits in a precarious position after losing the Carioca title to their archrival Flamengo, and currently faces a three-match winless streak. Assistant coach Marcão has been tasked with steering the team temporarily while searches for a permanent replacement continue.

“We need to focus on getting back on track and performing well in the Sul-Americana. The players are motivated despite the recent challenges,” Marcão stated in a press conference.

On the other side, Once Caldas occupies the 10th position in the Colombian league and arrives after two victories in their last five matches. Their latest win was against Millonarios in a preliminary round of the Sul-Americana, providing a morale boost heading into the group stage. Coach Hernán Darío Herrera will have a full squad at his disposal, hoping to capitalize on home advantage against Fluminense.

Once Caldas is expected to start with James Aguirre in goal, supported by a backline that includes Juan Cuesta and Jorge Cardona. The midfield will feature Iván Rojas and Alejandro García, while Michael Barrios and Dayro Moreno are set to lead the attack.

“We’ve been preparing to put in a solid performance in front of our fans. We want to make the most of this opportunity,” said Aguirre, eyeing a successful group stage.

For Fluminense, Marcão’s lineup will likely mirror the structure previously used by Menezes, with adjustments based on tactical nuances. Expected starters include Fábio in goal, a defense comprising Guga, Thiago Silva, and Renê, and a forward line featuring Germán Cano.

Key players for the Tricolor, such as Paulo Henrique Ganso and Renato Augusto, are recovering from injuries and will miss the upcoming match. This has forced Marcão to adapt strategies to work with the available squad.

This match is crucial for both teams seeking to build momentum early in the tournament. Group F also consists of Unión Española from Chile and Club Gualberto Villarroel from Bolivia, intensifying the competitiveness of the group.

In conclusion, anticipation is high as the two clubs prepare for battle. Fans can catch all action through live broadcasts on ESPN and streaming via Disney+.