Carioca 2026 rules explained and Flamengo’s paths after Volta Redonda setback | OneFootball

Flamengo’s 3-0 defeat in round two has sparked confusion over the Carioca format, yet qualification remains possible and the relegation threat is small.

According to Coluna Do Fla, the club sit fifth in Group B and could be bottom on Sunday if Maricá take points against Portuguesa at Estádio Luso-Brasileiro. Flamengo will have three matches played after a round-five fixture was brought forward, while most rivals will still have two.

The top four in each group reach the quarter-finals. Flamengo are two points behind third and fourth, Madureira and Boavista, so a knockout place remains within reach.

Relegation is decided by a four-team mini-league contested by the fifth and sixth sides from both groups, home and away. Only the bottom club goes down, so the risk exists but is minimal.

A draw with Portuguesa and defeats to Bangu and Volta Redonda have triggered an internal alert. The initial plan to field the under-20s even in the next two clássicos is being reviewed, with some senior players under consideration to lift results.

The coming days will shape the campaign. Flamengo face Vasco at the Maracanã on Wednesday 21 January, with the line-up undecided, kick-off 21:30 Brasília time. Fluminense follow on 25 January, then Sampaio Correia on seven February.

Source: Coluna Do Fla