Last year's state title victory over Botafogo marks a turning point for the Flamengo players who competed in that final. Despite everyone's confidence in the strength of the current team, there's a consensus within the club that next Sunday's match will have no connection whatsoever to the 2007 clash, when the Flamengo team won on penalties.

"We don't dwell on the past; that final is in the past. It was great to have won the title, we were happy, but now it's a different story. We have the responsibility to play well and fight for another title," said goalkeeper Bruno.

The player avoided any comments that might seem provocative toward Sunday's opponents. Regarding Castillo, he simply said he's "a good goalkeeper." When the topic of Botafogo's potential favoritism, Bruno emphasized Botafogo's strength.

"Botafogo changed some players compared to last year, but they deserved to be in the final. They beat Fluminense, showing their quality, and they have our respect. I'm sure the two best teams made it to the final, and they deserve congratulations for that," commented the red-and-black number 1.