Coach Caio Júnior wants the red-and-black team to play for victory on Sunday against Ipatinga in Minas Gerais. According to the manager, Flamengo must always think about winning, even when playing away from home.

"First, we have to get used to winning away from home. Don't think a draw is enough. It might be good depending on what the match throws at us, but we need to always think about winning, have that ambition."

Caio Júnior recalled Flamengo's campaign in the Brazilian Championship to justify the importance of getting points playing away from Maracanã.

"Ipatinga was promoted to the first division because they proved themselves on the field. At home, home advantage always prevails. We have the obligation to change last year's history. We only won three away matches, and I think that's why the team didn't compete for the title. Now it has to be different."

The red-black coach did not confirm the starting lineup for Sunday's match, but made a point of stating that the base will be maintained, as the team is having a great campaign in the national championship.

"We have to value this team that's been performing. Even though we lost to São Paulo, we're leaders and have the best attack. Just because we lost doesn't mean I'm going to change everything. I haven't decided on the team yet. I have doubts, and since I know Ipatinga's coach won't announce his lineup until the day of the game, I'll do the same. By questioning the lineup, I keep everyone motivated."

Regarding Renato Augusto, Caio Júnior stated that the player will only regain his playing rhythm by entering matches.

"Renato Augusto, as the evaluation showed, is in good physical shape, as is the entire group. What he needs is match fitness, and he'll get that by coming on during matches."