After yesterday's 2-2 draw with Santos in São Paulo, Thursday's match against Grêmio has become a decisive one for the Gávea team. Coach Caio Júnior is the one who guarantees it, and he hopes the red-and-black team will once again use the Maracanã as a powerful weapon to defeat their rivals.

"We have the second-best away record, but we're not having a good run of games at Maracanã. Last year, the stadium was crucial to our turnaround in the Brazilian Championship. I'm sure the fans will leave Maracanã satisfied on Thursday. It will be an important game for the home advantage to return to its strength. We have to play a decisive game, because the points difference is already significant."

Caio Júnior stated that Grêmio's greatest weapon is set pieces. The coach spoke briefly about the strengths of Celso Roth's team.

"Grêmio's good form is no surprise. The team plays modern football. They have a very good defense and score a lot of goals from set pieces with Tcheco. The two forwards, Perea and Marcel, are very dangerous. They are physically strong, as well as very cool."

Caio Júnior will be without Cristian, who was sent off in yesterday's match. The good news is the return of Kleberson, who received high praise from the manager.

"I was very pleased with Kleberson's training today. His problem isn't physical or technical. He needs confidence. He's a great player and should get a chance on Thursday."