Flamengo’s Maracanã farewell: one last test before World Cup dream | OneFootball

Flamengo returned to training on Friday morning at Ninho do Urubu, regrouping just two days after their decisive win over Deportivo Táchira, which booked their place in the Copa Libertadores round of 16. Players and staff are now shifting their focus to the next hurdle: a home clash against Fortaleza on Sunday evening at Maracanã—set to be their final fixture before departing for the Club World Cup in the United States.

The squad’s initial schedule had indicated a Thursday afternoon session, but the coaching staff granted an extra rest day. The decision was made in recognition of the team’s recent physical and mental intensity through back-to-back competitions. Flamengo will add one more training session on Saturday at 9:30 am ahead of the weekend’s matchup.

Heading into Sunday’s contest, Flamengo occupy second place in the Brasileirão standings with 21 points, just one behind leaders Palmeiras. Their last league outing saw them take all three points against Palmeiras, narrowing the gap at the top and maintaining pressure on their rivals.

Sunday’s game promises added meaning for club and supporters alike, not only as a key match in the domestic campaign but as a send-off before the team heads abroad. Fans are preparing special tributes at Maracanã, including displays featuring images of the club’s 1981 World Cup-winning squad, providing a nod to Flamengo’s storied past ahead of their next international adventure.

Filipe Luís’s side open their Club World Cup campaign on June 16, facing Tunisian outfit Espérance, with eyes set firmly on adding another chapter to the club’s international history. For now, though, attention is firmly fixed on Fortaleza and securing another vital league result.

Source: Lance