Flamengo faces Botafogo in the first classic of the season
The duel will be on Saturday afternoon (26), at 17 pm, at the Nilton Santos stadium
By John Peter Granette - in
The season is just beginning and Flamengo's third match of the year will be this Saturday afternoon (26), against Botafogo, at the Nilton Santos stadium. The Mais Querido comes from a victory against Bangu and a draw against Resende. The classic will be valid for the third round of the Taça Guanabara and the ball rolls from 17 pm.
Flamengo is currently in second place in Group C of the Guanabara Cup. The "Mais Querido" also holds the record attendance for the competition. For the match against Bangu, more than 46 Flamengo fans were present at the Maracanã stadium to watch the first home game of 2019.
See how Mais Querido's last engagement went through the lens of FlaTV
Hey, Rene!
On the eve of the derby, full-back Renê gave a press conference at Ninho do Urubu and spoke about the importance of winning the derby and taking important points from a direct rival.
"It's difficult to talk about the opponent. We know Botafogo hasn't had two good rounds, but that's none of our business. We're going for the three points. If Botafogo doesn't make it to the semifinals, that's even better. It's good to take out a strong opponent who we can face later in the competition."
The number 6 also commented on the work philosophy imposed by coach Abel Braga.
"I'm one of those people who likes to play all the time. But what Abel is doing has its positive aspects. We have a week to work. It helps us pick up the work philosophy faster. Flamengo is qualified to have two teams."
Flamengo x Botafogo
Counting all competitions and friendlies, Flamengo and Botafogo have faced each other 364 times. Flamengo has the advantage: 129 wins, 112 losses, and 123 draws. In goals scored, the Mais Querido has another advantage: 554 to 516.
Flamengo and Botafogo have faced each other only eight times at Nilton Santos in the Campeonato Carioca, with four victories for the Rubro-Negro, against one victory for the Alvinegro and three more draws.
Flamengo is fighting for its seventh undefeated title in the history of the Campeonato Carioca. The team won the championship without losing in 1915, 1920, 1979, 1996, 2011, and 2017.
Tickets
See all ticket information clicking here.
Transmission
The match will be broadcast exclusively on Canal Premiere FC.
Social media coverage
You can also follow the real-time action on Flamengo's official social media channels using the hashtag #BOTxFLA. Follow us on Twitter, at Instagram and like our page on Facebook. FlaTV also brings exclusive behind-the-scenes and match footage to the Rubro-Negra Nation. Sign up with one click, it's free!