Flamengo was defeated by Nacional (URU) 89-79 on Sunday night (9), in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the first of two matches for Rubro-Negro in the last window of the qualifying phase of the Champions League Americas (BCLA).

In a match marked by balance for much of the first half, Flamengo led the score at various points and went into halftime tied. However, Nacional took advantage of a high-scoring offensive third quarter, especially from three-point range, to build a decisive lead. Despite Flamengo's fight until the end, the Uruguayan team managed to control the score in the final period and came away with the victory.

Already qualified for the playoffs of the continental tournament, Mais Querido returns to the court this Monday (9) to face Obras (ARG), in the closing of the BCLA qualifying phase.

1st Bedroom

Flamengo started the game with defensive intensity, forcing errors from Nacional, and saw Alex Negrete score the first points for the red-and-black team. Even so, the Uruguayan team started better and took the lead: 6-4. Negrete remained the main offensive reference for Flamengo until Shaq Johnson converted a three-pointer that put Flamengo ahead for the first time in the game: 9-8. Following that, Kayo Gonçalves, also from the perimeter, and Manel, with a beautiful alley-oop, maintained the team's good offensive momentum. With another three-pointer from Kayo, Flamengo opened up a 17-10 lead, forcing a timeout from the opposing coach. Shaq Johnson continued to punish from the three-point line, and Flamengo reached 50% accuracy on three-pointers in the period. In a great play in the final seconds of the quarter, Gueiros found Manel to close the score, which ended with a Flamengo advantage: Flamengo 27-21.

2st Bedroom

Flamengo started the second period maintaining the intensity shown at the beginning of the game. The teams traded baskets, and the quarter remained balanced, with the score always very close. As the quarter progressed, Nacional improved and managed to turn the score around. Flamengo responded quickly with Baralle, who converted a three-pointer to put Flamengo back in the lead: 36-34. From then on, the two teams took turns leading the score, demonstrating offensive efficiency and making good use of their shots. At the end of the first half, the balance was reflected in the score: 45-45, leaving everything tied at halftime in Buenos Aires.

3st Bedroom

The third quarter started off difficult for Flamengo. Nacional returned from halftime with high efficiency from beyond the arc, converting three consecutive three-pointers and opening up a lead in the first few minutes. With just over three minutes played, the Uruguayan team was winning 58-49. After another basket by the opponent, Flamengo called a timeout to try and reorganize the team on the court. Upon resuming play, three-pointers from Franco Baralle and Shaq Johnson brought Flamengo back into the game, reducing the difference after a poor start to the quarter. Despite the attempted comeback, Nacional maintained their offensive rhythm and went into the final quarter with a lead: 78-69.

4st Bedroom

Unlike the previous periods, the final quarter was marked by poor offensive efficiency from both teams. Flamengo continued fighting until the end in search of a comeback, but struggled to reduce the deficit. With a run of 11-10 in the period, Nacional managed the previously built advantage and secured the victory 89-79.

Next challenge

Pride of the Nation returns to the court next Monday (9), in Argentina, to face Obras, at 19:10 pm, for the closing of the BCLA qualifying phase. 

Starting Quintet

Baralle, Shaq Johnson, Alex Negrete, Markeith Cummings and Wesley.

Coach: Sergio Hernandez.