Flamengo delegation arrives in Recife with a party and a bus surrounded by fans

Eduardo Peixoto

GloboEsporte.com Live from Recife

It was past midnight when the Flamengo delegation arrived at the arrivals gate at Guararapes Airport in Recife. In theory, it would have been a normal arrival. But around 150 Flamengo fans changed the situation. As they descended the escalators, the players heard the "Victory Theme."

- And these guys? That's why they're the best fans in Brazil - says goalkeeper Bruno.

The members of Fla Recife asked for photos and autographs from the athletes. Argentine Sambueza was impressed.

"It's fantastic. It makes me want to win the games even more to reward them," says the supporter.

Before the bus left the airport, about 30 fans surrounded the vehicle to sing songs of encouragement.

During the flight

Rubro-negros from Recife warmly welcomed Flamengo players

While outside the plane, the players found a welcoming crowd, inside, there was near-total silence, with most napping and some playing cards. Captain Fábio Luciano preferred to take advantage of the hours in the air to catch up on a book about the American stock market.