The draw against Ituano wasn't a result to celebrate, but for coach Rogério Lourenço, there's no reason to despair either. This Wednesday (July 07.07th), Flamengo played a friendly match that ended in a 2-2 draw, on their last day in the city of Itu, where they held part of their preseason training. Despite the result not being the best, Rogério believes the team didn't have a bad performance.

According to him, since the first practice match last Sunday, when Flamengo drew 1-1 with Desportivo Brasil, the team has improved considerably. While on that occasion the team didn't create many scoring opportunities, this time they simply failed to put the ball in the back of the net. Which, for Rogério, is proof that the team is growing at the right time.

"The result itself isn't worrying. The objective was to train and see the positive and negative points. I believe the period here was very good. Everything went as planned. The real concern will be when the Brazilian Championship starts. The team has improved since Sunday, and that's a sign of progress. Scoring goals is fundamental, but just creating more chances means we've already improved," he stated.

One positive point in the coach's assessment was the performance of striker Diego Maurício. The young 19-year-old center forward was given the opportunity to start against Ituano and did not disappoint: he scored the first goal for Flamengo in the game.

"Diego did well, he gained confidence with the goal and was more involved. I believe that, with more teamwork, he can perform even better," Rogério added.

Flamengo returns to Rio de Janeiro this Wednesday, has the afternoon off, and will reconvene on Thursday at 15 PM in Gávea.

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