Three points that are worth much more to the fans
If it depends on the will, Flamengo fans can expect a happy Sunday
By From the team at Flamengo's official website - in
When Flamengo takes the field against rival Vasco, they know they're playing for more than just three points in the Brasileirão standings. In this historic clash, where the Red-Blacks have an 11-game lead (140 to 129), a win is seen by fans as a true trophy, as the banter between Flamengo and Vasco fans continues throughout the week.
And so as not to disappoint the nation, Flamengo's players promise dedication and commitment to the 'cause,' so important to millions of Flamengo fans. One in particular, the defender who wears the team's number 4 jersey.
"The derby carries a special meaning for fans. Not just in Rio de Janeiro, but throughout Brazil. In my city, Ceará, it's the biggest rivalry. We know that, and we'll do everything we can to come away with the win. Even with Vasco coming in strong, it's a game no one wants to lose, and I'm sure the same is true at São Januário. For me, it's even more special because my father is a Vasco fan. I like to come away with a win to play with him. I know he'll be watching the game, but even though he's a Vasco fan, he'll be rooting for me and, consequently, for Flamengo," joked Ronaldo Angelim.
Scorer of the winning goal against his rival in 2001, Petkovic also emphasizes the importance of the match for the fans and hopes to take to the field with the support of millions of passionate fans to win the classic.
"The fans always remember that goal in 2001, which was one of the most important in my career. The prestige of winning a classic is huge, but the points are the same as in other games. We know it's an important situation for the fans, who always joke about it afterwards, at work, at school... It will be a great game with no favorites. Whoever is most inspired will win," said Pet, who is laying the groundwork for a 'happy ending' for the red-and-blacks.
"We have to work hard to achieve that inspiration on the field. We have to apply our best characteristics as well. The important thing about getting a good result is having even more peace of mind to work towards the other games."
And so as not to disappoint the nation, Flamengo's players promise dedication and commitment to the 'cause,' so important to millions of Flamengo fans. One in particular, the defender who wears the team's number 4 jersey.
"The derby carries a special meaning for fans. Not just in Rio de Janeiro, but throughout Brazil. In my city, Ceará, it's the biggest rivalry. We know that, and we'll do everything we can to come away with the win. Even with Vasco coming in strong, it's a game no one wants to lose, and I'm sure the same is true at São Januário. For me, it's even more special because my father is a Vasco fan. I like to come away with a win to play with him. I know he'll be watching the game, but even though he's a Vasco fan, he'll be rooting for me and, consequently, for Flamengo," joked Ronaldo Angelim.
Scorer of the winning goal against his rival in 2001, Petkovic also emphasizes the importance of the match for the fans and hopes to take to the field with the support of millions of passionate fans to win the classic.
"The fans always remember that goal in 2001, which was one of the most important in my career. The prestige of winning a classic is huge, but the points are the same as in other games. We know it's an important situation for the fans, who always joke about it afterwards, at work, at school... It will be a great game with no favorites. Whoever is most inspired will win," said Pet, who is laying the groundwork for a 'happy ending' for the red-and-blacks.
"We have to work hard to achieve that inspiration on the field. We have to apply our best characteristics as well. The important thing about getting a good result is having even more peace of mind to work towards the other games."
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