The team led by Jorge Sampaoli earned a ticket to the quarterfinals after a win over Tricolor. Erick Pulgar started the match in the midfield, helping shape the pace and balance of the game.
The Flamengo squad celebrated a flamenco-flavored victory in the Brazil Cup. Sampaoli’s side claimed another edition of the Classic of the Masses by defeating Fluminense in the round of 16 playoff, securing a spot in the quarterfinals. The path ahead could pit Flamengo against fellow qualifiers Palmeiras, Bahia, Grêmio, Sport Recife, América-MG, Athletico Paranaense, and Corinthians.
In the first leg, Rubro-Negro missed the chance to strike early after White found the net for Fluminense, despite Flamengo holding a numerical advantage following Felipe Melo’s dismissal. The Tricolor midfielder received a direct red card at 52 minutes after a decision influenced by the VAR, following a foul on Gabriel Barbosa.
In the return leg, Flamengo prevailed thanks to Giorgian De Arrascaeta’s breakthrough header from a cross that found Fábio off guard. Fabrício Bruno contributed with a strong showing in defense, and Gabigol added a late, decisive goal in the 90th minute plus two, sealing a historic win at the Maracanã and pushing Flamengo closer to a title after their prior dramatic round in October where they beat Timão on penalties (6-5).
As the night unfolded, Casilda-born man Eric Thumb was aligned as a starter, delivering an impressive performance in midfield and controlling the tempo with notable physical presence. Arturo Vidal remained on the bench, unused in this leg.
Looking ahead, the Tricampeão must now focus on Monday’s clash with Vasco da Gama in the Brasileirão, a match that could set up a high-stakes encounter with Racing in the Copa Libertadores and push Flamengo toward the next phase of continental competition.
Sampaoli’s numbers in command of Fla
90’+2 GOOOOAAL FOR FLAMENGO! Gabigol sealed the win at the Maracana with a composed left-footed finish.
33′ GOOOOOAAL FOR FLAMENGO! Giorgian De Arrascaeta headed Flamengo ahead, signaling their march toward the quarterfinals.
The confirmed lineups!
Flamengo: Matthew Cunha; Fabrício Bruno, David Luiz, Leo Pereira; Wesley, Thiago Maia, Erick Pulgar, Gerson, Giorgian De Arrascaeta, Ayrton Lucas; Gabigol.
Fluminense: Fabio, Samuel Xavier, Nino, Manoel, Guga; André, Martinelli, Lima, Paulo Henrique Ganso; John Arias, German Cano.
Source: Goal