Focus only on the Copa Libertadores

Players guarantee that the team is not yet thinking about the semifinal against Vasco

By From the team at Flamengo's official website - in 04/04/2010 às 19:35

A classic always stirs the players' spirits. Even more so in a decisive match, like a Rio Cup semifinal. However, the Flamengo fans insist they're not yet thinking about their rival Vasco da Gama next Sunday. After all, on Wednesday (April 07.04), Flamengo has a tough match in the Copa Santander Libertadores against Universidad de Chile at the Maracanã stadium.

Chilean Fierro believes that it is time to momentarily forget the fight for the fourth state title and focus all efforts on the international competition.

"We have to forget this match and start thinking about Wednesday. The derby against Vasco is important, but the game against La Unión is crucial for us. It's going to be a tough match, the Chilean team is playing very well, and we'll have to give it our all to get the win," he said.

Michael agrees. The left midfielder, who was the key player in the victory over Friburguense, sees the coming days as decisive for the red-and-black team's season.

"First we have to think about Wednesday. Obviously the semifinal is a classic, but first we have to focus on the Libertadores and be humble for this week, which will be very difficult," he said.

Coach Andrade joked with his players, stating that the year is just beginning. He said the semifinal against Vasco will be a tough game, but so will the match against "La U."

"It's a tough opponent, everyone knows that. I even joked that the year starts now, but on Wednesday we have a tough game that's crucial for our qualification," he concluded.