Buoyed by a significant victory in the CONMEBOL Libertadores, Flamengo turns its attention to the final of the 2019 Campeonato Carioca. "The Most Beloved" faces Vasco da Gama this Sunday at 16 p.m. at the Nilton Santos Stadium. In the last meeting between the teams, Flamengo prevailed on penalties to win the Taça Rio title.

Before the classic, De Arrascaeta gave a press conference at Ninho do Urubu and spoke about the motivation of playing in a final for Mais Querido.

"Our squad has to be highly motivated. Everyone wants to be present at the derby and the final. We have to prepare and set our minds to play two good games."

The number 14 also spoke about his reputation as a decisive player and the importance of always entering the area. 

"Every time we step onto the field, we're there to give our best. Sometimes we'll score or not, but we have many players capable of stepping into the box, scoring, and being decisive."

After five years, Flamengo and Vasco return to decide the Carioca title. The Rubro-Negro has won the last five times the State Championship was decided with this classic (1999/2000/2001/2004/2014).

Flamengo and Vasco have already decided the Rio de Janeiro State Championship 13 times. In these decisions, in direct confrontations, the advantage is for the Mais Querido, who has been champion nine times over its rival (1944/74/81/86/99/2000/2001/2004/2014).

Flamengo hasn't lost to Vasco in almost three years. During that time, they've played ten matches: two wins and eight draws.

Flamengo and Vasco face off again at Nilton Santos after six years. The last match at the stadium was in the 2013 Carioca Championship, with Vasco winning 4-2. The red-and-blacks scored goals from Hernane, Nixon, Cléber Santana, and Rafinha.

Overall, Flamengo and Vasco have played 385 matches. Flamengo has the advantage: 145 wins, 110 draws, and 130 losses. Flamengo has scored 515 goals, compared to Vasco's 499.

The Nation can still purchase tickets by clicking here.

 

The first match of the final will be broadcast on Rede Globo and also on Canal Premiere FC

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