The Brazilian Football Association have closed the Maracana stadium in preparation for the Rio de Janeiro Panamerican Games, causing the postponement of two games.

Leaders Botafogo's match against Corinthians has been re-scheduled for August 15, while the clash between Vasco da Gama and Flamengo will now take place on October 16.

That means Santos' game against Sau Paulo takes centre stage this weekend, with Renatinho in particular looking to grab the headlines.

The 20-year-old Santos forward has been compared by fans and press alike to one of the club's former stars, Real Madrid winger Robinho.

"This will be my first derby and I have to be fully concentrated in order to give my best," he said.

"Coach (Wanderley) Luxemburgo is in touch with me all the time because he wants me to be on my best form.

"There were some comparisons between Robinho and me, but I don't think about that."

Santos have managed only two victories in six games so far this season, but Renatinho prefers to look forward than back.

"Now, I only care about the next game because we need to win to climb in the standings so we are planning one game at a time," he said. "This match is crucial for us."

Sao Paulo players also recognise the importance of this weekend's encounter to their title aspirations.

Midfielder Jorge Wagner said: "This derby will be very important to begin a good spell and win confidence for the rest of the tournament."

Team-mate Ilsinho added: "I'm sure that this will be a great game, as the rivalry between the team has been growing and growing in recent years."

The Porto Alegre derby between Internacional and Gremio will be a key clash between two struggling teams.

Inter lie in 13th position with seven points and Gremio, who suffered a humiliating defeat against Boca Juniors in the Copa Libertadores finals, have one point less.

Inter's Sidnei, who will make his derby debut on Sunday, said: "I always worked to make the first team.

"The rivalry in the youth division is big, but now I have a much bigger responsibility."

The 5-0 aggregate loss in the Copa Libertadores was compounded for Gremio by injuries to forward Tuta, playmaker Tcheco and defender Teco.

Carlos Eduardo and Lucas are also unavailable after joining up with the Brazil Under-20 squad ahead of the Canada World Cup.

"Nobody is going to wait for our recuperation. We have to be strong and fight," said coach Mano Menezes.

The seventh round kicks off on Saturday, when Juventude host Figueirense and Parana play Sport.

In Sunday's other games, Palmeiras welcome Atletico Paranaense, America take on Fluminense, Cruzeiro host Atletico Mineiro and Goias visit Nautico.