Rodinei, who scored the red-and-black goal that secured the draw against Avaí, spoke to reporters in the mixed zone at Ilha do Urubu after the match. With Saturday's 1-1 draw, the "Mais Querido" (Most Beloved) remains provisionally in fifth place in the Brazilian Championship, with 39 points. At the end of the match, Rodinei praised the result, commenting on the difficulties posed by the opponent.
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Recognized for their defensive strength, the right-back praised goalkeeper Douglas, who has had great performances this season and was responsible for preventing a possible red-black comeback on several occasions during the match.
"Congratulations to Douglas, who's having a great campaign in the Brazilian Championship, saving every shot. Thank God I was able to hit that one with my left foot, which isn't very good, and we managed to come away with the draw," said Rodinei, who analyzed the match. "Due to the lack of team spirit that started, we were a bit lost in the first half. We conceded an unusual goal, from a set piece, but we managed to come away with the draw," he added.
An iconic moment after his goal was when the entire group celebrated together, emphasizing the bond of unity that has been built throughout the season. The genuine happiness each player feels for their teammate's success was highlighted by the red-and-black number 2, specifically referring to the effusive way in which someone with whom he maintains positive competition, fellow right-back Pará, celebrated his stunning goal.
"In all my interviews, I say that our team has been doing well this year due to our lack of vanity. I respect his performance, and he respects mine. Whoever Rueda chooses to put in the game, we'll be rooting for each other. I have no doubt that everyone was happy when I scored the goal because of the atmosphere we have," he praised.
Starting this Sunday (24), the focus of the team led by Reinaldo Rueda turns to the final of the Copa do Brasil. Rodinei commented on the expectations for the match against Cruzeiro, which will be played this Wednesday (27), at Mineirão.
"When I came to Flamengo, I already knew, from the time of Léo Moura and other full-backs, that Flamengo is a team that attacks. We can't arrive at Mineirão and just sit back, because that would leave them too many openings. We have to put the ball on the ground and play, to come away with the victory," said the full-back, who praised the Minas Gerais team. "On Cruzeiro, every player has quality, just like ours. It's no wonder we're in a Copa do Brasil final. Now we have to see what Professor Rueda has to tell us until Wednesday, so we can get there and bring home the title," he concluded.