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A return in style

After shining in 2009, Pet starts 2010 on the right foot

By - in

The chants of "It's Pet!" that echoed through the stands at Raulino de Oliveira Stadium proved that Petkovic remains one of the greatest idols in the history of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo. And on the field, he showed that, even at 37 years old, he continues to strive to become even more idolized by the Red-Black Nation. He needed just four minutes on the field to drive the fans even further into a frenzy.

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If the fans were thrilled by his simple entrance onto the field, imagine what they would have done if Pet had scored a goal... And he did. A stunning goal. He received the ball on the left wing, easily slipped past a defender with his trademark short dribble, as if playing futsal, and fired a shot into the left corner past goalkeeper Everton, sealing the victory over Volta Redonda 3-1 at the Estádio da Cidadania. Despite the stunning goal, Pet remains grounded and celebrates having won another match in the State Championship.

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"I took advantage. But it won't always be like this. The game was difficult, I came on and was fortunate enough to make a beautiful play. It's very important to win. It doesn't matter how well we play right now. We want to score because we're not in good physical shape, many players haven't played yet, and we have very difficult competitions ahead," he noted.

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Regarding the fans, the honeymoon continues. The player once again praised the fans, who cheered him on from the moment he first stepped into the stadium.

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"These fans are wonderful. Did you see how they welcomed me before and during the game? I'm glad I scored the goal. They deserved it," he added.

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If the plan comes to fruition, Petkovic, despite his standout performance last Sunday, is unlikely to start next Saturday's 17 p.m. match against Bangu at Engenhão Stadium. Coach Andrade assures he'll let the Serbian decide when he's 100% fit, but for now, he believes it's best to spare the number 43 from the effort.

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"He's a unique player. The first time he got the ball, he made a difference. But we'll be careful and patient with him. We'll talk again, and when he's ready, he'll be back in the team. But I still think it's better to wait and let Pet come on in the second half," he concluded.