The rivalry between Rio de Janeiro and Osasco in women’s volleyball has gained new chapters. Setters Brie King, from Sesc RJ Flamengo, and Giovana, from Osasco São Cristóvão Saúde, moved during the 2022/2023 season and gained prominence in the Superliga. They will be important weapons for the playoff match between the Copa Brasil teams, this Thursday (2/2), at 9:30 p.m., at José Liberatti’s home.

Holder of the Canadian national team, Brie King is living her first experience in Brazilian volleyball and is enchanted by the atmosphere of the gymnasiums. As part of the Rio de Janeiro team, she feels the warmth of the red-black public accustomed to the podiums. The beginning of the season was difficult and she was able to feel the atmosphere of the greatest classic of Brazilian volleyball.

– I expect another battle against Osasco. Our last match against them was very balanced. I felt like I was in an incredible, high-level environment,” says Brie King, aware of the challenges awaiting the team.

– Giovana is a very good setter, but what I admire the most is her heart and her passion. It’s always fun to play against athletes who give it their all on the court. I know that Osasco is a difficult opponent, with many weapons, but we are ready for the challenge, ”guarantees the Canadian in an interview with Pro Sports.

On the other hand, Giovana de São Paulo is living a special moment. After defending Sesc RJ Flamengo last season, she accepted the invitation to wear the jersey of another traditional team in the country. Thorough knowledge of both sides, she knows what to do to apply for classification.

– I expect another tough and decided game in the details. These are two teams that are growing a lot in this comeback. It won’t be easy for either of them, especially since it’s a classic. But our group is aggressive and we have to explore our serve well to use all our blocking power – assesses Giovana.

– I have the impression that we have grown a lot as a team and that we are looking for our place among the greats. The Copa Brasil is a super important championship and we are going in search of our goal – says the setter in an interview with Pro Sports

In the two classics between Sesc RJ Flamengo and Osasco São Cristóvão Saúde held in the 2022/2023 Superliga, better for the São Paulo club: 3-2 in the first round and 3-1 in the second round.

Whoever wins this Thursday’s match will be guaranteed a place in the Copa Brasil semi-final on February 6 in Jaraguá do Sul against the winner of the match between Dentil Praia Clube and Barueri Volleyball Club. The final will take place on February 7.