After Wednesday's tactical training session, Flamengo coach Caio Júnior confirmed the return of number 18 Obina for Sunday's match against Palmeiras at Maracanã. The coach did not reveal who would replace Argentine Sambueza, who was suspended after receiving his third yellow card.

"I still have doubts about confirming the team. But Obina, who made the most of his chances, will play," said the coach.

Former coach of the São Paulo team, Caio Júnior guarantees that Flamengo is prepared to put on a great performance on Sunday.

"I have a duty to know the opponent, and perhaps having worked at Palmeiras helps me. But the truth is that the game could be worth a spot in the 2009 Copa Libertadores. It will be an exciting and memorable match for the fans. We're going to put on a great performance," he says.

The coach knows that Palmeiras' attack, formed by Kleber and Alex Mineiro, is one of the strengths of Vanderlei Luxemburgo's team.

"They have an excellent team and two strikers who are perhaps the best in Brazil today. They play with great movement, finish well, and are difficult to mark."

Caio Júnior wants the team to stay focused in this final stretch of the Brazilian Championship.

"For anyone outside of football, the end of the year means thinking about vacations and relaxing. For us, it's different. It's at this time that you need to be more focused, taking care, especially with the mental strain, which is also very high."