Bap decision unsettles Flamengo as senior debut is brought forward | OneFootball

Flamengo have brought forward their 2026 senior debut after a decision by president Bap, a move that has caused unease behind the scenes.

Flamengo initially listed all starters to face Vasco, but the line-up will depend on each player's fitness, with those not starting on the bench, GE reported.

It is understood head coach Filipe Luís and his staff opposed moving the schedule, preferring to keep the original plan.

Bap is said to view the calendar in institutional terms, and the risk of a relegation quadrangular, plus six matches instead of four, led him to insist on change.

Flamengo have four absences for the clássico, with Saúl recovering from ankle surgery, De La Cruz and Danilo on tailored injury work, and goalkeeper Andrew not registered in time for the match.

The club's under-20 side have taken one point from three Carioca games, a 1-1 draw with Portuguesa, leaving them bottom of Group B on one point.

The derby kicks off at 21:30 Brasília time on Wednesday, 21, at the Maracanã, marking the senior team's first outing, the stadium's season opener and the first run for the new home shirt.

Live coverage is on Rede Globo, with SporTV, Premiere and GETV on YouTube also broadcasting the game.

Source: Coluna Do Fla