Attacking midfielder Zé Roberto was one of Flamengo's standout performers in their 2-0 victory over Fluminense in the final round of the Brazilian Championship. Showing improved physical and technical form, the number 26 hopes to maintain his good form against Vitória tomorrow at Barradão.

"I know my start here wasn't the best. Nobody likes to receive criticism, but I knew the expectations were high, given Flamengo's greatness. This just shows that I needed to work to improve and now to maintain it. If I don't play well, the criticism will come back. I'm motivated to maintain this momentum."

For the attacking midfielder, the championship has arrived at a defining moment and the red-black team cannot make any more mistakes if they really want to secure a place in the next Libertadores.

"The championship is narrowing. Vitória, São Paulo, and Palmeiras are direct rivals, and these are good games because they play and let others play. We can't make mistakes if we want to reach the top four. We're in contention, we know how difficult it is, and we can't drop points if we want to stay on top of the table."