Diego Maurício, as always, did his part. The striker opened the scoring for Mengão in today's derby against Botafogo, but the Rubro-Negro, even after taking a 2-0 lead, faltered and conceded the equalizer. The result was lamented by some of the players, given the circumstances of the match. However, for the championship, earning a point away from home wasn't so bad.

The opening minutes of the match gave the impression that the Ninho do Urubu kids would put on another show. Despite playing away from home, Flamengo took control of the derby. Top scorer Diego Maurício scored first. Keeping up his tradition of scoring in every match, the center forward quickly paved the way for another Mengão victory.

Soon after, it was Luiz Antônio's turn to score, giving Flamengo a comfortable lead. Everything was heading toward another three points for Flamengo. However, in the final minutes, the team from Gávea faltered, and two isolated chances—a shot from outside the box and a penalty—gave them the equalizer.

A result regretted by goalkeeper Marcello Victor at the end of the match.

"The team played well, but ended up conceding a draw in the end. Of course, we were disappointed to concede a draw, but getting four points from our first two away games isn't bad. We have to look at it from that perspective and remember that we have three home games now. We need to get at least seven points," said the number 1.

Striker Diego Maurício celebrated another goal in his quest for the top scorer spot and is eager to host Fluminense next Sunday at Gávea Stadium. The match, despite being the last of the first round of the final stage, is crucial for both teams. Both teams have four points and lead the quadrangular standings.

"The team played well, but faltered on two occasions and ended up conceding a draw. Thank God he helped me, and I scored another goal. On Saturday, we'll decide first place against Fluminense," said the player.

E-MAIL: tbarros@jornaldanacao.com.br