With two goals in six games for Flamengo, attacking midfielder Marcelinho Paraíba believes the match against Ipatinga will be another tough one in the Brazilian Championship. Knowing the difficulties of the match, Marcelinho stated that the red-and-black team will enter the field with great energy.

"The fans can be sure that we'll do everything we can to win. We'll go into it with all the energy we can muster because we're only thinking about victory. It's a dangerous game; we can't think we'll just go out and win at any moment. That's why we need the fans' support. It'll be a tough game like any other. Although Ipatinga has never won away from home, they deserve all our respect in this final stretch of the championship."

Tested during the week in attack and midfield, Marcelinho Paraíba said he feels comfortable in either position.

"Caio knows I can play up front or further back. I'm relaxed and feel comfortable helping out in either position. We lost on Sunday to a great team, but now we have two home games that we have to win."

At 33 years old, the player is one of the leaders of the current red-black squad.

-"We had a meeting the other day, and I made a point of speaking my mind. Fábio Luciano is a leader, but the responsibility can't rest solely on him. I have experience, and I try to help in any way I can."