After a technical training session this morning in Gávea, coach Caio Júnior stated that there is no favorite for Sunday's classic against Botafogo at Maracanã.

"Botafogo's rise is no surprise to anyone. Ney Franco is a great coach. There's no favorite in a classic at any point. It's going to be a great game. Just like them, we know their team."

With Grêmio's 7-1 victory, Flamengo lost the lead in the Brazilian Championship after nine rounds. For Caio Júnior, the important thing is to maintain the top spot until the end of the competition.

"We haven't seen a drop in performance in recent rounds, but rather a drop in results. Leading the Brazilian Championship for nine consecutive rounds isn't easy, and the pressure is immense. Now it's Grêmio who will feel that pressure. The most important thing is to stay in the top spots, with a chance to fight for the title until the end of the championship."

The coach confirmed that Kleberson is available for Sunday's derby. Toró, meanwhile, returns on Wednesday against Palmeiras at Palestra Itália.