Fluminense target Carioca title, likely Flamengo final: “Only outsiders play it down” | OneFootball

After overcoming their rival Vasco last Sunday and securing their spot in the Campeonato Carioca final, the Fluminense players will have a full seven-day cycle dedicated exclusively to the decisive match. The squad was given a day off from activities on Monday and will then begin preparations to face either the favorite Flamengo or the underdog Madureira — the Gávea team triumphed in the first match 3-0, and the teams will soon decide the spot.

With coach Luis Zubeldía serving a suspension, assistant Maxi Cuberas took charge on the sidelines in the last classic. At the end of the game, he celebrated the qualification but noted that satisfaction will only be complete with the trophy in hand.

— We can enjoy the victory and the qualification for the final. This week, we will work to recover the players, thinking about the final. Today (yesterday), we took a good step, but what we all want is to win the tournament — declared Cuberas.

One of the standout players of the match for saving a penalty in the second half, the experienced Fábio highlighted the importance of the regional championship for the Tricolor athletes. Asked about the possible encounter with Flamengo, he did not shy away from the topic and already projected the classic that is expected to take place next weekend:

— Only those who are not in the final and cannot win devalue (the State Championship). To win, it's very challenging. These are classics that drive the history of the teams that have the opportunity. It stirs tradition and love. It's a championship we value a lot. It will be a tough game. Flamengo has the same mindset when facing Fluminense. We hope to do what's necessary. The most important thing is the attitude on the field, all the focus and effort — explained the goalkeeper in the mixed zone.

If Flamengo's advancement is confirmed, it will be the sixth time in the last seven seasons that Fla-Flu will decide the champion. Having won the titles in 2022 and 2023, Fluminense now seeks to achieve a three-peat within this victorious period.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.