After this afternoon's training session in Gávea, where the starters defeated the reserves 3-1, coach Caio Júnior confirmed the inclusion of Argentines Maxi and Sambueza in Flamengo's starting lineup. According to the Flamengo manager, both players deserve this opportunity.

"Initially, the team is the one that trained. I'll just wait for Toró, who will be re-evaluated tomorrow. If he's unable to play, Airton comes in, who has already shown he can start. I want to reassure the players. Sambueza has to play to prove himself. He was a bit tarnished by that performance against Atlético-MG, but he was playing out of position. He's been training well and deserves this chance in his right position. He's a very technical player who controls the game well. He'll help Juan a lot on the left side. Maxi, on the other hand, has been playing very well. He's scored two goals in the last few games. With him, we gain speed. He and Marcelinho played well against Grêmio and Figueirense. They're a successful duo, and I hope they put in a good performance on Sunday."

Caio Júnior was happy with Diego Tardelli's return to the field.

"It's great to have Diego Tardelli on board. He's already an option for the game against Palmeiras. He's in the process of re-acclimating and will be training hard physically and technically this week. He's a great addition for this final stretch, and we're counting on him."