One of Flamengo's standout players in this Campeonato Carioca, attacking midfielder Zé Roberto is treating Sunday's derby against Botafogo at Maracanã as a real showdown. According to the number 10, Flamengo will be looking for a win to secure first place in Group B of the Taça Guanabara.

"It will be our first game of the year against a big team. It will be a good test for us. I'm sure we're ready to put in a great performance. It's a game surrounded by a lot of rivalry, which has grown in recent years. Since we're at the top of the group, we'll go all out to win."

Former Botafogo player Zé Roberto guaranteed that Sunday's classic will not have a special flavor for him.

"I'm treating it like another important derby. There's no special reason. Botafogo is already in the past for me. I don't have any kind of feelings. I'm just focused on playing a great game and helping Flamengo."