Flamengo's futsal team has a decisive match this Wednesday at 20 p.m. at the Hélio Maurício Gymnasium. Coach Cid Escarlate's team hosts USS/Vassouras, in a direct battle for a spot in the top four. Vassouras has 4 points and is in fifth place, two points behind its rival. América is third with 14 points but has played a game more. Therefore, whoever wins will take a big step toward securing a spot in the semifinals of the competition.

The reigning state champion, Flamengo, is coming off a marathon of matches last week. They defeated Vasco in the Campeonato Carioca, then played four qualifying matches in the Taça Brasil de Futsal Adulto (Adult Futsal Brazil Cup), against Minas, São José, São Paulo, and Jardim Limoeiro, over four days. Despite the fatigue, the players considered the experience very positive, particularly in terms of proving the team's strength.

"We showed ourselves our potential. This was a great experience for many people in the group and brought our team together. We came back much more focused and stronger to take the State Championship by storm," analyzed center Diego Carvalho.

Rivalry
The match has been a fierce rivalry since 2007, when Flamengo partnered with Vasco da Gama. Last year, Flamengo eliminated Vassouras in the quarterfinals of the State Championship. This year, in the Carioca Championship, Flamengo won twice in the qualifying round and eliminated Vassouras in the semifinals. In the first round of the State Championship, Flamengo prevailed, even playing in Vassouras: 4-3. Therefore, it's inevitable that a tense and closely contested match will be expected this Wednesday.

"Playing against Vassouras is always difficult. Like all decisive games, we have to go in with a lot of concentration and the same spirit we had in the Taça Brasil to get this result," said Diego.

Old acquaintance
One player will have special memories when he steps into the Hélio Maurício Gymnasium soon. He's no longer with Flamengo, but he's returning to the place where he made history in late 2008. Center Sixel plays for Vassouras, but he doesn't hide the affection and memories he has of the team that won last year's championship with Flamengo.

"Unfortunately, this happens, but it's a wonderful feeling to be back at Flamengo. I have the utmost respect for the club; I had some great times there, but now I'm at Vassouras. A top scorer thrives on goals, right? And I hope to score my own and help make another great match between Flamengo and Vassouras," said Sixel.