Grêmio defender Pará believes that Internacional will “play for their life” in Sunday’s Gre-Nal derby, the last to be held at the Olímpico, before Grêmio move to their new arena in December.
Pará, 26, is on-loan at the club from Santos, but is more than aware of the significance of Sunday’s tie.
“Gre-Nal is a league apart. No matter the place and the stadium,” the right-back told reporters.
“We know it’s a farewell, but we have to win for the importance of the game. We know that they have great players who play for Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina.
“Their situation is complicated, but they will come here and play for their life.”
However, for Grêmio there is more than just local pride at stake, as a victory will secure second place in the league which means direct qualification into next year’s Copa Libertadores.
“It’s a game to win something not yet achieved: the direct entry. I feel privileged as a player to be in the Olímpico farewell.
“I’m sure we’ll do our best. I expect a big win to mark the closure of the stadium,” he added.
