Botafogo’s Bold Derby Lineup Shocks Fluminense
In a move that adds a new twist to the classic, Botafogo coach Davide Ancelotti has named Cuiabano and Chris Ramos in the attacking trio for the Maracanã showdown with Fluminense, scheduled for Sunday at 16:00. Arthur Cabral is left on the bench as the Glorioso chase a result that could shift their Brasileirão campaign. In defense, Gabriel Bahia earns his first start in central defense, partnering with David Ricardo, while Léo Linck guards the net.
Starting XI and tactical shape
The lineup reads: Léo Linck; Vitinho, Gabriel Bahia, David Ricardo, Marçal; Newton, Marlon Freitas, Savarino; Santi Rodríguez, Chris Ramos, Cuiabano.
That 4-3-3 shape leans on a solid back line, with Gabriel Bahia stepping into a new role at center-back alongside David Ricardo. In midfield, Newton anchors the middle, flanked by Marlon Freitas and Savarino, providing a mix of ball-winning energy and creative distribution. Up front, Santi Rodríguez operates on the right, with Cuiabano on the left and Chris Ramos leading the line or occupying a central striker role, depending on the phase of play. The decision to start Cuiabano and Ramos together signals a shift toward a more direct, aggressive approach against the Rio rival.
Debuts and bench depth
Gabriel Bahia’s defensive debut arrives amid a challenging run; his partnership with David Ricardo will be crucial as Botafogo looks to balance defensive solidity with the pace and trickery of their attacking trio. The Glorioso bench features a mix of youth and experience: Raul, Cristhian Loor, Justino, Mateo Ponte, Allan, Cauã Zappelini, Artur, Matheus Martins, Jeffinho, Kadir and Mastriani. These options give Ancelotti plenty of flexibility to adapt if the match demands fresh legs or a different tactical footprint.
Fluminense’s response under Luis Zubeldía
Fluminense counters with a new coaching influence, as Luis Zubeldía leads the side. Their starting XI shows Fábio in goal; a back four of Samuel Xavier, Thiago Silva, Freytes, and Renê; a midfield trio of Martinelli, Hércules, and Lucho Acosta; and an attacking line of Serna, Cano, and Canobbio. This lineup suggests a balanced approach: solidity at the back with Thiago Silva leading, and creativity in the middle with Martinelli and Lucho Acosta pulling the strings for right-sided Serna and the front line involving Cano and Canobbio.
What this clash means for both teams
Beyond tactical formations, the derby at the Maracanã carries significant weight in the Brasileirão standings and club morale. Botafogo aims to take advantage of home momentum and the element of surprise with their revamped attack and a debuting center-back pairing, hoping to disrupt Fluminense’s rhythm under Zubeldía. For Fluminense, the challenge is to translate a new managerial strategy into consistent performance, leveraging their experienced spine to control midfield and exploit counter opportunities against Botafogo’s potentially aggressive pressing.
Bottom line
Sunday’s clash promises a fascinating chess match: a daring Botafogo lineup crafted to surprise and upset Fluminense, against a disciplined, evolving Fluminense under new leadership. Fans can expect a high-energy, balanced spectacle at a venue steeped in Brazilian football history.
