Confirmed back in the Flamengo team for this Saturday's match against Sport, at Maracanã, midfielder Roger said this Friday that he considers this match and the next one, Wednesday, against Figueirense, as the turning points of the red-black campaign in the Brazilian Championship.

"These are two extremely important games. The results will determine whether we'll be close to the relegation zone until the end of the competition or whether we'll be able to fight for a spot in a South American championship," said the midfielder, who also said he considers the match against Sport to be more difficult than the derby against Botafogo, which Flamengo drew on Wednesday.

"It's a more difficult game than the derby, because our obligation is to win. Any other result will be favorable to the opponent. But I'm sure that once again the red-and-black fans will be there to support us, and this will help us fight even harder for the three points."

When asked if he would accept taking the penalty kicks for the next two games, as Souza will be serving a suspension, Roger said he had already performed the role for other clubs and would do it again without hesitation. He emphasized, however, that he considers Souza a great taker and that the responsibility should return to the striker as soon as he is fit to play.