A training match against Guanabara for those who didn't play in the victory over Goiás, and training in the club's pool for midfielder Roger and the players who took the field on Sunday. This was how Flamengo's squad returned to training on Monday afternoon in Gávea. Off the field, the derby against Botafogo was the focus of coach Joel Santana's interview.

"There's no such thing as favoritism in football. Not even in horse racing. The horse that's going to win sometimes loses, imagine in football. Botafogo is in a better position in the table, they're a great team, but Flamengo has been improving in the competition and we have the ability to face them."

Joel also highlighted that the euphoria due to the positive moment the team is going through, having won the last four games played at Maracanã and, as a result, left the relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship, is under control.

"It was a joyful return, because we managed to leave the last four positions in the table, but there's no reason to celebrate. We're in 16th place, and that's not where Flamengo belongs. We have one of the five best squads in the Brazilian league, and we're going to aim for a better place in the standings."

The coach also stated that he expects to have the entire squad available for the derby. Striker Maxi Biancucchi suffered a minor left thigh injury, and Joel is hopeful he'll have the player available. Roger trained in the pool, and Renato Augusto participated in the practice match against Guanabara, scoring one of the goals in the 3-0 victory.