Paquetá returns as Flamengo aims to cut Palmeiras' lead in Brazilian league

Flamengo, with the return of key midfielder Lucas Paquetá from injury, seeks to gain ground on league leaders Palmeiras when they face Vitória this Sunday. Currently sitting second in the Brazilian league standings with 39 points, Flamengo trails Palmeiras by eight points. The team has secured only two wins in their last five league matches, making this upcoming game crucial for maintaining their title challenge.

Paquetá's return is a significant boost for Flamengo. The midfielder, who joined the club in January for a record fee, had been sidelined since June due to an injury sustained during a match against Japan in the World Cup. Additionally, coach Leonardo Jardim will have Uruguayan Giorgian de Arrascaeta available, another vital player in the midfield who missed the World Cup due to a thigh injury.

Meanwhile, league leaders Palmeiras, holding a comfortable advantage, are set to play against Internacional. Internacional is currently in a poor run of form, with four losses in their last five games, placing them precariously close to the relegation zone. Palmeiras, on the other hand, has been dominant, winning four of their last five league fixtures, despite a recent loss to Fortaleza in the Copa do Brasil, which did not prevent their progression in the tournament.

Palmeiras' coach Abel Ferreira can also rely on his attacking duo, Argentine Flaco López and former Barcelona player Vítor Roque, who is regaining form after ankle surgery. Elsewhere, Neymar's Santos, currently fifteenth in the table, will aim to distance themselves from the relegation zone in a challenging match against third-placed Athletico Paranaense. Santos recently secured a 1-0 victory against Remo in the Copa do Brasil, with Neymar providing the assist.