In a close duel, Flamengo defeats Botafogo and starts well in the State final
David Nesbitt and Marquinhos were the highlights of the great victory in Tijuca
By Mariana Sa - inA tough match, just like a final demands. Despite the final score difference of 88 to 69, Flamengo needed to use its strong defensive and offensive skills to beat Botafogo at Tijuca Tênis Clube. On Tuesday night (25), David Nesbitt and Marquinhos shone, the collective effort prevailed and Mais Querido took the advantage into the next game of the final.
The Flamengo team started by controlling the offensive actions of the match. Working the plays well and making the most of the seconds on the clock, Flamengo took few three-point shots and managed to work better in the paint. Even though they fought hard and put up a tough fight, Botafogo quickly fell behind. With an excellent collective performance, Flamengo finished the first quarter 24-13.
The second period remained unchanged. With excellent defense and close pressure, Flamengo managed to prevent the black-and-white team from extending their lead. Going on the offensive, Flamengo managed to score important baskets, but also suffered from a tight game. However, the final stretch favored the home team, who strung together consecutive points and opened up a large 42-21 lead.
Returning after halftime, Botafogo came out stronger. Scoring 11 points in five minutes compared to Flamengo's four, the opposing team managed to react and forced Gustavinho to call a timeout. That was all Flamengo needed to get back into the game. Even with the match heating up more and more, Flamengo came out with a 59-48 lead.
The final quarter was very tense. While Botafogo fought to get closer, Flamengo tried to hold the score to secure the victory. A strong reaction from the opponent brought Flamengo back into the game. With a block by Varejão and a steal by Balbi, Flamengo quickly scored six points and forced Botafogo to call a timeout. The match remained difficult, but with more focus from Flamengo. Thus, control returned to the hands of the team from Gávea and the score ended 88-69.
The next challenge in the final will be this Thursday at 20 PM in General Severiano. This time, only Botafogo fans will be present.
The basketball teams of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo receive funding from their sponsors – thinkseg, Estácio, AmBev, Rede D'or, IRB Brasil RE, CSN, Brasil Plural, and EY – via the Federal Incentive Law/Ministry of Sports (IR) and the State Incentive Law/Rio de Janeiro State Secretariat of Sports, Recreation, and Youth (Seelje), in addition to support from the Brazilian Club Committee (CBC) resulting from the decentralization of resources from the Pelé Law. The Anjo da Guarda Rubro-Negro Project, a personal tax transfer, benefits all Olympic sports of the Most Beloved.