Being Obina's backup, an unusual occurrence since his arrival at Flamengo, hasn't shaken Souza's confidence in the slightest. After two games on the bench, the striker hopes to get a chance in tomorrow's derby against Vasco. The hope for a starting spot, however, will be the same attitude he's shown since being overlooked by Obina.

"We learn over time that rebellion gets us nowhere. I really like Obina; we're friends off the field, too, and I respect him immensely. He waited for his chance and never complained. In two years at Flamengo, I've never been a reserve, so I can't complain now. I root for him, and I know that if I start, Obina will root for me, as he always has," said Souza, who has yet to score in a derby against Vasco.

Second number 9, coach Caio Júnior's choice was natural after Obina scored both goals in the victory over Sport, when Souza was suspended.

"I'm calm and working to regain my place. Obina scored the goals in Recife and deserved to stay on the team. That's football, and my fight is to play and help Flamengo stay in the lead," he commented.