One of Flamengo's most experienced players, attacking midfielder Marcelinho Paraíba, assures that the Flamengo squad is treating Sunday's match against Palmeiras as a real decision. According to the player, the focus now is on returning to the top four of the Brazilian Championship.

"A win puts us back in the top four. Depending on the results of this round, we could close in even further on the leaders. The team is training well, and I'm sure we'll arrive prepared to play a great game. Our focus now is to beat Palmeiras and return to the top four. They're a direct opponent, and we have to treat it like a decisive match. There are only four games left, and we can't afford any more mistakes. We have to win and hope to lose our direct competitors."

Marcelinho knows that the red-and-black fans can be very important in such a balanced match against Vanderlei Luxemburgo's team.

"They have a great team and have already proven it. I hope the fans fill the Maracanã and cheer us on. We feel at home when the fans are behind us. We know that the players are the ones who win games, but the fans can help a lot too."

Substituted in recent matches, Marcelinho is aware that he can perform much better for the red-black team.

"I may not be at my best technically, but I'm not lacking in drive and desire, and I won't be. I have a strong sense of self-criticism, and I know I can perform better. Who knows, maybe my good form will return with a goal on Sunday. That would be great."