Luis Fabiano: "I'm back and we're going to win the title" (Luiz Pires/Vipcomm)

Luis Fabiano will finally make his debut (for a second time) for São Paulo on Sunday, six months after signing for the club. Of course the player is already a São Paulo legend and he spent several years with them earlier in his career before moving to Europe.

The opponents are Flamengo and it should be a great occasion: a returning hero; two giants of Brazilian football; 70,000 fanatical fans packing the stadium; and a few important title points to play for. Regular blog commenter Gil is has got tickets for the game. I am expecting pictures, comments and possibly even a blog post for from him for this. Another recent blog commenter @Pitacodogringo will be commentating on the game live unless he’s doing Vasco Corinthians that is. But good stuff either way!

In terms of line up Dagoberto is back from injury and will bolster São Paulo’s attack along with Luis Fabiano. Former Arsenal midfielder Denilson is also expected to play or at least he’s been giving interviews like he is. Ronaldinho is available for Flamengo after serving suspension last weekend. And if anybody is in doubt how important he is for Flamengo, just ask Alex Silva. According to him Ronaldinho is ”50% of Flamengo’s team”.

There is also the small matter of Vasco and Corinthians at the same time on Sunday (4pm Brazil, 8pm UK) and Fluminense v Santos on Saturday night (6pm Brazil). And, just in case anybody was wondering, down the road in São Paulo, Corinthians are preparing their own injured star (Adriano) for battle and he could be set to make his debut next weekend. Watch this space.

Finally ready (Luiz Pires/Vipcomm)

Nice Fabiano goal in training here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqENS1naVMY&feature=player_embedded

Like Brazilian football? Follow on Facebook and Twitter; leave a comment; join the debate; spread the word; share the love.