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Lenon and Fierro compete for a spot on the team

Andrade tested both players in Friday's tactical training session. Fabrício is confirmed to replace Álvaro, who is ruled out for the derby.

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Flamengo's squad returned to training this Friday afternoon at the Ninho do Urubu Training Center in Vargem Grande. In a tactical training session, coach Andrade tested two formations for Sunday's derby against Botafogo at the Engenhão stadium.

Álvaro participated in the first half of the training session, but felt pain in his right knee again and is ruled out for the match. Andrade confirmed Fabrício will start alongside Airton in defense. The coach's only doubt is in midfield, with Fierro and Lenon vying for a spot.

The red-black coach said he will only reveal the starting lineup moments before the classic.

"With Lenon, I gain more consistency in marking. And then the team increases its pressure with Toró and Maldonado. Fierro is an option who plays more on the right side. He helps with marking, but it's not the same. On the other hand, with him, we gain more in passing the ball out. I'll only define that before the game. It's a bit of a question mark and a bit of a mystery."

Andrade is confident that the defensive duo, formed by Fabrício and Airton, will perform well.

"With Álvaro out, I opted for Fabricio, as he's left-handed and plays on the left flank. With Wellington, the team might have been a bit lopsided. Fabrício comes from the U-20 national team with high morale and is a player I already know. I have a lot of confidence in our defense."