Flamengo's squad returned to training this Thursday afternoon at the Ninho do Urubu Training Center in Vargem Grande. With an eye on the upcoming Brazilian Championship match against Botafogo at Engenhão Stadium on Sunday, coach Andrade led a tactical training session for the Flamengo team.

During the training session, Andrade named Lenon and Fabrício among the starters. The team trained with: Bruno; Léo Moura, Airton, Fabrício, and Juan; Maldonado, Lenon, Toró, and Petkovic; Zé Roberto and Adriano. Gil, Flamengo's reinforcement for the end of the Brasileirão, was tested in Zé Roberto's place at the end of training.

Andrade took advantage of the activity to correct the team's positioning errors and practice set plays. After the tactical work, the squad's forwards practiced finishing.

Álvaro, who is recovering from pain in his right knee, only walked laps around the field alongside Kleberson. The defender is expected to train with the rest of the group tomorrow afternoon. The number 13 remains doubtful for Sunday's derby.

After training, Serbian Petkovic said there is no favorite for Sunday's duel, even with the red-black team fighting for the top spots and Botafogo fighting to move away from the relegation zone.

"Everyone is focused and focused on playing a good game on Sunday. The rivalry with Botafogo has grown a lot in recent years, and I'm sure it will be a very difficult and hard-fought derby. There is no favorite, and both teams will have to fight hard to get a win. In my opinion, this match against Botafogo is the most important game of the championship for us."