Petkovic returned to the Flamengo starting lineup last Wednesday night (14.04), in Santiago, in the match against Universidad Católica. The Serbian lamented the 2-0 defeat, but made himself available to coach Andrade to continue in the eleven for Sunday's classic, at 16 pm, against Botafogo, at Maracanã.

The number 43 hopes that the midweek result does not take the team's focus away from the Taça Rio final.

"It wasn't the result we wanted. The first goal really complicated our situation on the field and I hope this result doesn't shake the team for Sunday. The best thing is to just focus on the decision against Botafogo," he said.

The midfielder guarantees that, if necessary, he can play throughout the game, regardless of his physical condition.

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"It could be better, but I'm doing what I can to always play well and help Flamengo. I can train every day and I wouldn't have any problem playing 90 minutes," he explained.

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Despite this, Pet believes that facing a team that didn't play midweek is a decisive factor. For the player, however, it's important to excel in moments like these.

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"We're going to face a team that hasn't played in the middle of this week and that counts a lot. We're tired and that could compromise us for Sunday, but Flamengo is about overcoming. Sunday is 50/50 and I hope Flamengo's XNUMX% speaks louder," he added.

Flamengo and Botafogo will decide the second round of the State Championship, for the second consecutive time, next Sunday (April 18.04). A victory for Flamengo gives the team from General Severiano the Carioca title in advance. A victory for Flamengo forces two more games to determine who will be the best in Rio.