Flamengo will face Paulistano in the third game of the Novo Basquete Brasil quarterfinals this Saturday (04.05), at 21:45 pm, at the Tijuca Tênis Clube gymnasium. If they win the match, the Mais Querido will close the series at 3-0 and guarantee their place in the semifinals of the competition. Center Olivinha hopes that the Flamengo fans, just as they did in the team's second victory against the São Paulo team, will be the sixth player on the court.

"It's going to be another tough game. We know the difficulties we'll face, because our opponent will be eager to win, but we're counting on the support of our fans and we hope the Nation repeats the show they put on in the last game. We'll do everything we can to come away with another victory and try to close out the series tomorrow," said Olivinha.

Despite Flamengo's two victories, Paulistano has proven to be a tough opponent to beat. In the second game of the series, for example, Flamengo trailed for the first three quarters. Point guard Benite knows that the third game against the São Paulo team will be no different and is keen to emphasize the importance of the fans in securing another victory.

"I think the team's expectation is to close out the series, of course, but we know it's going to be another very difficult game. Despite being 2-0 up, Paulistano has been playing with a very strong defense, forcing our team to work hard on the attack. I think playing at home, with the fans behind us, will be the strength we need to close out the series 3-0 in the next game," said Benite.

Tickets for this Saturday's match can be purchased online, by phone 4003-1212 and at the Gávea headquarters. If Flamengo does not win the game, the fourth match of the series will be held next Tuesday (07.05), in São Paulo.