Playing a derby is a unique experience for any player. Even more so when it's their first. Flamengo's squad, despite being experienced, still has first-timers when it comes to important derbies. One of them is Rodrigo Alvim.

At 26 years old, the player, who has played in Germany and Portugal, has never played in a regional duel of the size of Flamengo and Botafogo. And, with Juan suspended, he will be on the field this Sunday (21.03), at Engenhão.

 "It's my first opportunity to play in a derby. I'm a player who came here to contribute, and I hope to prove that with every match. So, I want to make history at Flamengo," he said.

Alvim arrived at Flamengo at the beginning of the year as a left-back, established himself as a defensive midfielder and is now back in his original position.

"Regardless of the position, I hope to help Flamengo. I'll go out on the field to do my best. I'm happy to have Andrade's trust to play both in the middle and on the wing, and I'm always striving to perform to my best," said the player.

The number 21 has already scored two goals this season, both in the Copa Santander Libertadores, and is pleased with the feat. However, he warns fans: this isn't common.

"The fans recognize me a little more now. They stop and ask for autographs. I'm happy about that, but I don't usually score goals. I usually score one per season. I even joked with Alvaro today. With these two goals, I don't need to score again until 2011," he concluded.