Matheus Pereira reflects on Cruzeiro's exit: 'I demand more from myself'
Cruzeiro's number 10, Matheus Pereira, opened up after the Copa Libertadores elimination against Flamengo, emphasizing the need for higher personal and team standards.
Following Cruzeiro's heartbreaking exit from the Copa Libertadores at the hands of Flamengo, midfielder Matheus Pereira was candid about his disappointment. The 'Raposa' were eliminated in the Round of 16 after a 2-1 loss at the Maracanã, ending their campaign with a 3-2 aggregate defeat.
The feeling is one of frustration, especially given our performance in the first half. We were the better side when we conceded the second goal. It is a very difficult elimination. I have to hold myself accountable; I demand a lot from myself to be more decisive and involved. Unfortunately, I couldn't do it today. Matheus Pereira
The playmaker stressed that the entire squad must increase their accountability to avoid failing during high-stakes matches. Pereira also drew parallels between the team's current struggles and his own personal journey of overcoming adversity, noting that his past experiences keep him resilient.
"I often think back to my life story, of overcoming, fighting, and achieving. Four years ago, I was struggling with depression, but I kept fighting and today I am a winner in life. I want to bring that mentality to football. These are heavy defeats in decisive moments, but we cannot lower our guard. We must believe in the project and make it happen," Pereira added.