After the 5-1 thrashing of Portuguesa on Saturday night (11), coach Zé Ricardo gave a press conference at the Raulino de Oliveira stadium, in Volta Redonda. Among the topics discussed, the coach praised Damião and Juan, in addition to highlighting the free kick goals in recent games.

Leandro Damião was the star of the night, scoring three times in the first half. Regarding the player, Zé Ricardo praised the striker's ability. "Damião is a great striker. He's been available for some time, but he wasn't at 100% physical condition. We thought it was important to bring him in today. He's opportunistic and knows his way around the box. I'm happy to see him back," he said. 

Defender Juan scored the club's fourth goal, his first since returning to the club. "He's spectacular, a defender with rare technique. He could even play more than he does, but sometimes we have a rush of dates that's difficult for a 37-year-old. He's certainly a defender like few others here in Brazil," the coach praised.

Flamengo's favorite goal scored his third free-kick goal in three games, an impressive feat. Zé Ricardo commented on the importance of getting this right: "Flamengo has a history of good free-kick takers, the greatest of which is Zico. Brazilian football was experiencing few direct free-kick goals, and very few teams scored that way in last year's Brazilian Championship. We're always training, and Paquetá, Guerrero, Diego, Vaz, Donatti, Rodinei, and Cuellar always do it."

"We're working hard to ensure Flamengo has a consistent style and style of play, and it's important to create options within the squad. This is in the team's DNA, with everyone working hard. We'll have training tomorrow to prepare for Wednesday's game. The strong attack is a result of this hard work. We're at the beginning of the season, only two months old. The trend, if all goes well, is to create a more competitive team in defense and attack. Balance is key. Let's rest, celebrate tonight, and think about Wednesday," analyzed Zé.

Thinking about the next challenge, valid for the Conmebol Libertadores Bridgestone, the coach concluded speaking about Universidad Católica, Wednesday's opponent (15): "Without a doubt it will be a very difficult game, it is a very committed team, they do not give up at any moment. We have to go in there with maximum attention and work to be able to play a game with concentration, commitment and also intensity. Flamengo will not stray from its characteristics, but will take precautions for facing an opponent away from home."