From São Paulo, Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira has offered a respectful assessment of Estudiantes, acknowledging the stature of the Argentine club known as Pincha as the continental picture continues to draw attention beyond the pitch.
Ferreira also appeared to direct a pointed remark towards Flamengo, whose Mengao side are pursuing qualification through a complaint over the alleged improper registration of Marcos Rojo. The issue has added an administrative strand to a competition shaped, as ever, by the long rivalry and close scrutiny connecting Brazil and Argentina.
