WITH 11 CASUALTIES, FLAMENGO HAS 'A TEAM' FULL OF ABSENCES AGAINST ATHLETICO-PR

After terminating its contract with PixBet and considering new proposals, Flamengo has chosen Betano as its new master sponsor . The agreement, valid until 2028, is the largest in Brazilian football history, with a potential annual value of R$268.5 million . President Luiz Eduardo Baptista, known as Bap, explained the reasons behind the choice.

WHY WAS BETANO CHOSEN?

According to Bap, the decision wasn't based solely on financial considerations. He highlighted the process of rapprochement between the parties, emphasizing the company's strength in the market and its stance on the social challenges facing the betting industry.

"It was a process of mutual understanding. We understand Betano's role in this growing world , which also brings challenges. They expressed concern about this," said the Flamengo president.

FLAMENGO IS MORE THAN SOCCER

The president noted that the sponsorship extends beyond the main team, also encompassing the club's other sports: " Flamengo is much more than a football club . It's a nation, with many dimensions and tribes : rowing, basketball, volleyball, judo, swimming, artistic sports—in short, so much more," Bap emphasized.

'ONE PLUS ONE MAKES THREE'

Jokingly, Bap stated that the partnership could elevate Flamengo to heights never before achieved in its history: " By getting to know each other, we were able to devise a global strategy . Who knows, maybe Flamengo and Betano have discovered that one plus one can make three?" he said.

WHEN WILL BETANO DEBUT ON THE SHIRT?

Betano's debut at the Manto Sagrado is scheduled for the match against Vitória this weekend. Bap concluded by wishing the partnership a positive and lasting one: " May it be a very long-lasting and positive one , both for Flamengo and Betano."

CONMEBOL's 2026 World Cup qualifiers are underway , but Vinicius Junior's absence from Brazil's preliminary squad has drawn attention . Coach Carlo Ancelotti decided not to call up the striker for the matches against Chile and Bolivia, a move that has sparked discussions about squad planning and management.

WHY WAS VINICIUS JUNIOR SPARED?

According to Ancelotti, the decision is part of a strategy to rest and maintain physical health. Suspended against Chile due to a backlog of cards, Ancelotti felt he could leave the player out. The coach opted to extend the recovery period, given the former Flamengo player's fatigue throughout the season .

ATTACKER'S RECENT PERFORMANCE

After shining in 2023/24, winning titles with Real Madrid and being named Champions League Player of the Year, Vini Jr. started the 2025/26 season at a slower pace. He managed just one goal and one assist in six FIFA Club World Cup matches , a performance that raised questions about his fitness.

BRAZIL FACES CHALLENGES IN THE QUALIFIERS

The national team currently sits sixth in the qualifying rounds, with just two wins in six games. In addition to Vini Jr. 's absence, there is uncertainty over Neymar's call-up. As a result, Ancelotti has been relying on the depth of his squad , making room for new players to show their worth.

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

Despite his current situation, Vini Jr. remains a key player for Brazil. The expectation is that, in peak form, the striker will play a key role in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup . Between club and country, managing his physical load is seen as essential for him to remain a protagonist on the international stage.

Coach Filipe Luís showed confidence when projecting the decisive duel between Flamengo and Internacional, this Wednesday (20), at Beira-Rio, for the return leg of the round of 16 of the Libertadores. After two recent meetings between the clubs , the coach highlighted that he already knows the opponent's style of play well.

"Internacional has to put pressure on us, and I have no doubt they'll try. They're looking to keep possession and create dangerous plays . At home, they'll put pressure on Flamengo ," said Filipe Luís in a press conference after their second consecutive victory over Colorado.

CONTEXT OF THE CONFRONTATION

The teams arrive at their third duel in just seven days. On Sunday (17), Flamengo won 3-1, in the Brasileirão, at Beira-Rio, extending their lead in the championship with 43 points. Before that, on Thursday (14), Mais Querido had already defeated Colorado 1-0, at Maracanã, in the first leg of the Libertadores.

SAÚL ÑÍGUEZ WINS SPOT ON THE TEAM

When asked about the Brasileirão victory, Filipe Luís highlighted the importance of Spaniard Saúl Ñíguez, who started the match: "Saúl played a great game. When he arrived at Flamengo, he still needed to regain his fitness. This defensive midfielder role is the heart of the team, and it demands a lot . Now I felt he was ready," explained the coach.

WHAT TIME IS THE GAME?

Flamengo and Internacional face each other again this Wednesday (20), at 9:30 pm (Brasília time), at Beira-Rio Stadium, in Porto Alegre. The match will define the place for the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores . The event will be broadcast by Globo (open TV), ESPN (closed TV) and Disney+ (streaming).