After another tactical training session this morning at Gávea Field, coach Caio Júnior practically confirmed his starting lineup for Sunday's match against Ipatinga at Maracanã Stadium. The manager praised the starters' victory in yesterday afternoon's training session and decided to give another chance to the team that lost to São Paulo last weekend.

"I think the team that faced São Paulo deserved another chance, especially in terms of positioning. Josiel improved a lot with the freedom to move and finished more often. I enjoyed yesterday's training session and thought it was best to continue with the team from the last match."

For Caio Júnior, Flamengo's attacking trio, formed by Everton, Marcelinho Paraíba and Josiel, has everything it takes to put on a great performance on Sunday.

"The tendency is for them to be selected. I'm not ruling out Vandinho yet, but I think Everton, Marcelinho, and Josiel have a good understanding of their positioning needs. Just because we lost to São Paulo doesn't mean I'm completely dissatisfied. I expected more, but we played well in other matches. I'm looking for the ideal attack, one that scores goals. The important thing is to keep things going. Josiel, lacking rhythm, may have felt it more."

Caio Júnior warned of the dangers of facing Ipatinga. According to the coach, the Minas Gerais team has significantly improved in recent rounds.

"Our responsibility increases when we play in front of our fans, but those who follow Ipatinga know that they're growing and playing better. Márcio Bittencourt has managed to rehabilitate the team emotionally. Initially considered a relegation candidate, they're now competing on equal terms with their opponents."