Having delivered one of the club's standout performances in the 1-0 victory over Vasco da Gama, Rafael Vaz appeared in the Victorino Chermont Press Room at Ninho do Urubu, where he spoke to the reporters. The defender commented on the opportunity he received against his former club, but lamented the circumstances surrounding his starting spot, given the stomach issue captain Réver suffered during warm-ups.

During the conversation, Vaz celebrated the defensive sector's excellent performance in the match, managing to maintain its level of play despite two central defense changes during the 90 minutes. The athlete also outlined the Mais Querido's outlook for the remainder of the Brazilian Championship, emphasizing a mantra he has repeated daily in pursuit of the ultimate goal, the title: "Flamengo has to take it game by game."

I'm always with Réver; we train together. I knew more or less what was going to happen, but it was during warm-ups that he told the committee he wouldn't be able to play. That's when I knew I could play where I wanted to play.

It's even annoying, because I can't be happy. Of course, every player wants to play, but it's sad to see a teammate unable to play because they're sick or injured. It was also interesting to see Romulo, who isn't a defender but has the quality to play that position when needed.

I think every game is important, but it's clear that given the table, the situation and the sequence of games we have ahead, it will be of great importance to get a victory on Thursday.

It's not that I believe in destiny. God makes everything right. It was meant to be; I was meant to play there. Every player loves playing against their former club, and after everything I went through there, I wanted to be on the field. I wanted to make history, as few players have been able to play on both sides.

I'm very happy. My duty here is to always help. When the coach needs me, I need to be ready. I work daily to earn his trust, and if I have the opportunity to play on Thursday, I hope to get on the field and help my teammates.

Anything is possible. We can count on the numbers, but I think Flamengo has to take it game by game. That's our motto. We need to think about Grêmio first. I'm sure it will be a great game, and we'll fight to keep Flamengo where it belongs, fighting for titles.

I went on a trip with my family. The best time to celebrate is being with them. I traveled with my wife and daughter, and I was able to celebrate with my parents.