Thaindian News

Rio de Janeiro, Jan 26 (IANS) Brazilian club Flamengo’s fans were left disappointed after a 1-2 loss to Bolivia’s Real Potosi in the first leg match in the qualifying round of the 2012 Libertadores Cup football.

During much of Flamengo’s pre-season, fans were critical of the administration’s lack of new signings. The club’s financial problems leaked onto the playing field with head coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo having a falling out with star midfielder Ronaldinho.

The club’s situation became even worse, with the humiliating loss in the Libertadores to an “inferior” Real Potosi.

“It seems like they have never played together. There is no rhythm. Flamengo has Brazil’s largest fans base. If the fans are not happy, neither should be the club’s board. We have complained for nearly a month about the lack of new talent brought in for the new season. If the team cannot make it through the qualifying round of the Libertadores Cup, it is going to be a long year,” a disgruntled Flamengo fan named Fabiano Silva was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

Fans of Flamengo guaranteed that they will fill the stadium in the return leg against Real Potosi, scheduled for Feb 1 in Rio de Janeiro, in order to cheer their team to victory.

In order to advance to the group phase of the competition, Flamengo need a shut-out win or will need to win by a two-goal margin. A draw favours the Bolivians. A repeat of Wednesday’s score will take the match into penalties.