The return of Jorge Carrascal promises to bring grit to Flamengo against Internacional! After more than two months sidelined, the midfielder arrives for a crucial matchup in the Brazilian Serie A.
The Rubro-Negra faithful are counting down the hours to another electrifying showdown in the Campeonato Brasileiro. This Wednesday (29), Flamengo travels to Porto Alegre to face Internacional in the 21st round, in a match that carries the weight of a final. But what is truly causing a buzz behind the scenes is the long-awaited return of a star who has been away from the pitch: Colombian midfielder Jorge Carrascal.
Carrascal‘s presence is more than just a simple return; it is the hope for a fresh start for Leonardo Jardim‘s squad. After an absence stretching over two months, his reintegration into the roster is a bright spot amidst a series of challenges the club from Gávea must overcome to stay firmly in the race for the Brazilian Serie A lead.
The Long Wait for Carrascal
Sidelined since May 23, 2026, when he was sent off in a classic against Palmeiras for striking defender Murilo, Carrascal faced an automatic suspension followed by two additional matches imposed by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). Even after serving his suspension, the Colombian midfielder was not utilized by the coaching staff—a period that coincided with the World Cup break, during which he also did not play for his Colombia national team. Now, the chance for redemption and to prove his value is in his own hands.
Major Absences and Uncertainties
While fans celebrate Carrascal‘s return, Flamengo is dealing with significant absences that require creativity and roster depth. Forward Gonzalo Plata is out with pes anserinus tendinitis, joining Lucas Paquetá, who remains in physical recovery from a thigh injury, and Luiz Araújo, with a left knee problem. The club’s medical department is working intensely, and the coaching staff is still evaluating the status of Léo Ortiz and De La Cruz, whose presence in the traveling party to Porto Alegre remains uncertain.
Probable Lineup and the Fight for the Top Spots
Expectations are that head coach Leonardo Jardim will field a strong and focused team for the clash at Beira-Rio, which kicks off at 7:30 PM. The probable starting lineup for Flamengo is: Rossi; Emerson Royal, Vitão, Léo Pereira, Alex Sandro; Erick Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta; Samuel Lino, Bruno Henrique, and Pedro. With 38 points, O Mais Querido sits in second place in the Brazilian Serie A, six points behind league leaders Palmeiras (44). A win against Internacional is fundamental to narrowing that gap and keeping the title dream alive.
The passion of the fans transcends the pitch, and every match is a battle. The return of Carrascal is a symbol of resilience and renewal for Flamengo, which faces the challenge at Beira-Rio with the clear goal of earning points. Absences are obstacles, but the strength of the squad and the thirst for victory are greater. With the nation behind them, Mengão seeks not only the win but the consolidation of their position in the race for the coveted Campeonato Brasileiro title, honoring the motto that beats in the heart of every supporter: “Raça, Amor e Paixão” (Grit, Love, and Passion).
