After this afternoon's training session at Gávea, Flamengo coach Cuca assured that Flamengo will be in full force to face Botafogo on Sunday at Maracanã, in a match that will determine the first place in Group B of the Guanabara Cup. Despite numerous difficulties in forming the team, the coach is confident that the Gávea team will perform well.

"I had some problems today, like Everton's injury during training. We have Léo Moura with the flu, and Zé Roberto with muscle pain. We'll wait for tomorrow's training session to see if those two can play. Maxi, with tendinitis in his right foot, is out. Furthermore, we still have Ronaldo Angelim, Airton, and Marcelinho Paraíba on two yellow cards. Those on two yellow cards will only play if absolutely necessary. I'll wait for tomorrow's training session to decide the team. Even so, we'll be going strong against Botafogo. We have a great squad and we're looking for a win to secure first place in the group," said the coach, who confirmed the inclusion of Thiago Sales in Ronaldo Angelim's place.

For the coach, Botafogo is on a roll after yesterday's 5-1 victory over Friburguense.

"Botafogo played very well yesterday. They won with authority and are coming into the derby in high spirits. But Flamengo is also going. We're the only undefeated team in the competition. It's definitely going to be a great game. A derby is always worth a lot, even with both teams already qualified."

Cuca praised Flamengo's preparation for the Guanabara Cup semifinals.

"They said I rested players in the game against Boavista. But that wasn't the case. Those who didn't play worked hard for the semifinals. The coaching staff is carefully considering everything. We're preparing the players to be in top form for the final."