At the end of the match in Campinas, coach Reinaldo Rueda appeared in the Moisés Lucarelli stadium press room to give a press conference. The red-and-black team's performance in the 1-0 loss to Ponte Preta was one of the topics discussed. Even with the São Paulo team taking the lead early in the second half, the coach emphasized the team's dedication on the field, never giving up on the fight for a result.

However, the Colombian also commented on the lack of precision in finishing the chances created, a key factor that could have changed the course of the match. "It was a very intense game, but we weren't lucky enough to get any points. Our opponents played with great intensity and also needed a result. They scored a goal, unfortunately for us. The team gave their all the time. Flamengo was organized, dynamic, and pushed for the goal, but we weren't in the right frame to finish," he analyzed.

Negative scores bring pressure from fans, especially for a team as big as the Mais Querido. The setback keeps the Rubro-Negro in seventh place in the Brazilian Championship, just four points behind the top four. Considering this short gap, Rueda emphasized the importance of the nation's support as the national competition continues.

"For any big team like Flamengo, even more so with this huge fan base, it's committed and contagious. It's up to us to respond to everyone with results on the field. It's normal for our fans to demand this, and that's where we know them. They support us at this moment, they support our players, because it's something you see in fans from a young age when they join Flamengo. We're committed, and I'm sure this team will take us forward," said the coach.

Despite the fans' request for support, the team's need for improvement is clear to the club's manager. "We have to improve our football. There are good and important moments, relevant concepts, but we must improve," he added.

That's the goal. We have to know that our commitment is to a spot in the Libertadores. If we can advance directly to the group stage, even better. But we have to work hard and achieve the results that will secure that spot. These positions are difficult. We have to talk less and work harder.

There's work to be done. If we start justifying any decision I make, we'll be here all night. It's the work we do, getting to know the players, and finding the best time for each one to come in. I don't think there's anything to say about the situation.

I believe it's something that only happens when we start to get results, when we achieve fluidity. Not just in terms of finishing, but also in creating clearer plays. I think it's something that can be solved with football and goals.

We have big names, players with a lot of experience. It's up to us to take on this responsibility. Unfortunately, we're not getting the results we expected. This will be a break that could be both good and bad. I believe we had a good mental attitude, despite Wednesday's game. We played with determination, organization, teamwork, and aggression. We hope this derby will be positive for us.