Flamengo’s new stars set for Maracanã test | OneFootball

Flamengo welcome Atlético Mineiro to Maracanã on Thursday in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil round of 16, with the club set to play in front of a capacity home crowd for the high-stakes clash, according to Lance. The fixture comes just days after Flamengo’s 1-0 league victory over Atlético, a result that propelled them to the top of the Série A table. Over 50,000 tickets had already been sold by midweek, with expectations nearing a full house of 60,000 supporters.

The encounter offers Flamengo an immediate opportunity to assert their growing ambitions on both domestic fronts. Historically, Flamengo have a slight edge over Atlético in all competitions, with 38 wins in 92 meetings, and come into the tie following a comfortable progression past Botafogo PB in the previous round. Their dominance is reflected in the cup context as well, with the Rio side winning five of their eight previous Copa do Brasil encounters against Atlético.

The squad could see the official debut of several new signings. Emerson Royal, whose transfer from Milan was finalized earlier in the week, has been registered and is available for selection. Manager Filipe Luís, however, noted in his latest press conference that the right-back, having undergone pre-season abroad, will be gradually integrated into the team. Other summer additions, including midfielders Saúl Ñíguez and Jorge Carrascal and attacker Samuel Lino, are in a race against time to complete registration ahead of the fixture.

Saúl, who spoke to COPE radio in Spain, expressed his eagerness to contribute despite acknowledging he is not yet at full match sharpness. “I haven’t played for three months, but I’ve been training with Flamengo for five days and will be called upon for the game. If Filipe and the club need me, I’m willing to take any risk and give my best in the minutes I get,” Saúl said. Filipe Luís recognized the Spaniard’s readiness, praising his competitiveness, quality, and versatility in midfield, but cautioned that Saúl is still working toward optimal fitness after arriving directly from individual training in Europe.

The Flamengo manager is expected to field a strong starting line-up, with Rossi likely in goal, Ortiz and Pereira at centre-back, and key figures such as Arrascaeta orchestrating play in midfield. Squad rotation is expected to be minimal despite a condensed fixture list, as Flamengo aim to balance priorities between the league and knockout stages.

Thursday’s match will be overseen by referee Raphael Claus, with VAR support from Caio Max Augusto Vieira. Kick-off is scheduled for 21:30 local time, with live broadcast coverage on SporTV and Premiere. Flamengo’s stands, their newest signings, and their pursuit of another title promise a vibrant setting as they look to take control of the tie.

(Sources: Lance, Globo, UOL)

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