Bahia Faces Flamengo Amidst Injury Struggles in Crucial Match

Salvador, Brazil — This Sunday, October 5, Bahia will take on Flamengo at the Arena Fonte Nova at 6:30 PM (Brasília time) in a critical match for the 27th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. The game will be broadcast on Premiere.

Currently in sixth place with 40 points, Bahia needs a win to maintain their position in the G-6 playoff spots, especially with São Paulo closely trailing at 38 points. Following a recent loss to Botafogo, Bahia hopes to recover despite a long list of injuries and suspensions affecting their squad.

Flamengo, meanwhile, leads the league with 55 points and is looking to continue their unbeaten streak of 12 games against Bahia, a record that includes five wins at Bahia’s home ground. After a recent draw with Cruzeiro, Flamengo aims to strengthen their lead with key players like Arrascaeta and Pedro expected to start.

Bahia’s coach Rogério Ceni faces challenges, with thirteen players missing due to injuries and suspensions. Suspended players include Luciano Juba, Santiago Arias, Rodrigo Nestor, Gabriel Xavier, and Sanabria. Among those injured are João Paulo, Kanu, David Duarte, Erick, Caio Alexandre, and Ruan Pablo. Ramos Mingo remains a doubt due to a recent muscle problem.

Despite these difficulties, Ceni’s probable lineup includes goalkeeper Ronaldo, defenders Gilberto, Rezende, David Duarte (or Fredi), and Zé Guilherme, along with midfielders Acevedo, Jean Lucas, and Everton Ribeiro. Up front, Kayky and Iago Borduchi (or Michel Araujo) will likely partner with Willian José.

Flamengo’s coach Filipe Luís also faces adjustments, with Léo Pereira and Alex Sandro both suspended. Danilo and Ayrton Lucas are expected to fill their roles. Erick Pulgar is still sidelined with an injury. The anticipated Flamengo lineup features Rossi in goal, supported by Varela, Danilo, Léo Ortiz, and Ayrton Lucas on defense, while Jorginho, De La Cruz, and Arrascaeta will manage the midfield. In attack, Plata and Samuel Lino will support Pedro.

Referee Rodrigo José Pereira de Lima will officiate the match, with Bruno Boschilia and Nailton Junior de Sousa Oliveira as assistants. Both teams are eager for a victory, with Bahia aiming to close the gap in the standings and Flamengo intent on extending their lead.