Ten Hag’s Nightmare Debut Ends in Embarrassment as Flamengo U20 Run Riot
Erik ten Hag couldn’t have asked for a worse start And In his first game in charge of Bayer Leverkusen, his side lost 1–5.
Even more shocking, the opponent wasn’t Flamengo’s first team—but their U20 squad.
Although the match was billed as a friendly, the humiliation was complete from the first whistle.
Because of that result, questions now surround Ten Hag’s tactics, selection, and preseason preparation.
Flamengo U20 Dominate Every Phase of the Match
From kickoff, Flamengo’s young guns played with confidence, intensity, and tactical clarity.
Meanwhile, Leverkusen looked disjointed, passive, and slow to react.
Within 15 minutes, Flamengo had scored twice—both goals coming from crisp, fast counterattacks.
Because of their compact shape and fearless pressing, they completely disrupted Leverkusen’s rhythm.
Leverkusen Collapse Before Halftime
Ten Hag’s side tried to regroup after the early goals, but they failed to gain control.
Every time Flamengo attacked, they created space behind Leverkusen’s defensive line.
By halftime, the scoreline read 0–4. The crowd inside the stadium grew restless.
Because of that first-half disaster, Ten Hag made three substitutions at the break.
However, the damage was already done.
Defensive Errors Cost Leverkusen Dearly
Leverkusen’s defense struggled all game. Their backline misjudged runs, lost aerial duels, and failed to mark in transition.
Even senior players looked rattled under Flamengo’s pressure.
Because of constant gaps between midfield and defense, Flamengo found it easy to enter the box.
One Flamengo player completed a hat-trick before the 60th minute—without heavy pressure.
Ten Hag Tried to Adjust—But Nothing Worked
At halftime, Ten Hag switched to a back three to cover more ground.
He also asked his midfielders to press higher and recover possession quickly.
However, Flamengo’s composure and sharp passing broke down every adjustment.
Because of that, Leverkusen’s players grew frustrated and unorganized.
The only bright spot came in the 75th minute when Leverkusen scored a consolation goal.
Post-Match Reactions: Fans, Media, and Ten Hag Speak Out
After the final whistle, German media described the result as “humiliating,” “shocking,” and “a disaster debut.”
Fans expressed disbelief online, with some calling it the “worst performance in years.”
Meanwhile, Ten Hag addressed the press.
He said, “We lacked intensity, discipline, and identity. This was not good enough.”
Because of the pressure, he promised immediate changes before the next fixture.
Why the Defeat Feels Even More Concerning
Losing a preseason match isn’t always a major issue.
However, losing 1–5 to a youth team raises serious concerns.
Lookman, Frimpong, and Palacios all played—yet failed to impact the game.
Because of that, fans now question Ten Hag’s man-management and early system choices.
Although preseason is for experimentation, the lack of energy shocked supporters.
Flamengo’s Young Stars Earn Worldwide Attention
While Leverkusen collapsed, Flamengo’s youngsters earned global praise.
Their No. 10 created three chances, completed eight dribbles, and assisted two goals.
Because of that performance, scouts from Europe now follow him closely.
Flamengo’s academy director said, “This is what we train for. We’re proud of how our boys played.”
What Ten Hag Must Fix Before the Season Starts
Ten Hag now has two weeks to prepare for Leverkusen’s Bundesliga opener.
He must rebuild team confidence, improve defensive structure, and reestablish tactical clarity.
Moreover, several players may lose starting roles after this performance.
Because of that, the next match becomes more than a friendly—it becomes a test of reaction.
Final Thoughts: Ten Hag’s Leverkusen Era Starts in Chaos
Erik ten Hag suffered a brutal reminder—nothing comes easy in top-level football.
Although preseason offers flexibility, a 1–5 defeat to Flamengo U20 sends a worrying message.
Because of that result, the pressure begins early in his new chapter.
He must now bounce back, prove his leadership, and show that this was a one-off—not a sign of things to come.
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