Vasco DA Gama prepares for a crucial clash against Flamengo at the iconic Maracanã, for the 14th round of the Brasileirão Série A on May 03, 2026, at 20:00. This 'Derby of Millions' is particularly significant for Vasco, as they aim to reverse a challenging record of 13 games without a win against their arch-rival, a streak that has weighed heavily on the club.

Flamengo, on the other hand, arrives at the classic with mixed results but still in good form. In the Copa Libertadores, the Rio de Janeiro side drew 1-1 with Estudiantes in Argentina, with Luiz Araújo scoring for the Rubro-Negro, ending a seven-game winning streak. In the Brasileirão, Tite's team demonstrated strength by thrashing Atlético Mineiro 4-0 in Belo Horizonte, maintaining second place in the table, six points behind leader Palmeiras, but with a game in hand.

However, Flamengo faces a series of significant absences for the match. Midfielders Pulgar, Arrascaeta, and Paquetá are injured, while defenders Emerson Royal and Léo Pereira are doubtful. Additionally, Carrascal is suspended, forcing the coach to make significant adjustments to the lineup for the classic.

The probable Flamengo lineup for the Derby of Millions is expected to feature Rossi in goal; Varela, Léo Ortiz, Danilo, and Alex Sandro in defense; Evertton Araújo, Jorginho, and Luiz Araújo in midfield; and Plata, Pedro, and Samuel Lino in attack. The absence of key players may impact the team's dynamic, but the squad still possesses depth.

Despite the absences, Flamengo is considered the favorite for the game, given their recent superiority in head-to-head encounters and their current position in the Brasileirão table. The match will be officiated by Wilton Pereira Sampaio, an experienced referee, and the expectation is for an intense and hard-fought game, as is characteristic of this Rio classic.

For Vasco DA Gama, this game represents more than just three points; it's an opportunity to break a long-standing jinx and boost morale in the competition. The pressure is immense, but a victory at the Maracanã against their rival could be a turning point in the Gigante da Colina's season.