On Sunday, the Carioca rivals take to the field for a game that will decide whether one qualifies for the Copa Libertadores or the other winning the 2011 Brazilian Serie A title.
Flamengo sit fourth in the table with sixty points and need only a point to book their place in next year’s Copa Libertadores, whilst Vasco sit in second with sixty eight points and must win and hope Corinthians lose to their arch rivals Palmeiras. Corinthians hold a two point advantage at the top of the table on seventy points.
The objectives are very clear for both sides, but disrupting their rival’s plans also serves as an extra motivation for both clubs.
Speaking ahead of the Classico dos Milhoes, Flamengo left-back, Junior Cesar, notes that besides reaching their objectives, both teams will be thinking about the importance of the historic rivalry that weighs in on the game.
”Flamengo and Vasco will enter the game with extra motivation. Flamengo will fight for a spot in Libertadores and Vasco still have a chance in winning the title,” said the left back. ”Both sides will go in to the game searching to score. We want to win and take the title away from them and Vasco will want to win and make sure we don’t qualify for the Libertadores.”
