The game was lukewarm, and Flamengo's performance was far from its best. But the 2-0 victory (Gabriel Ramos and Patrick) over Carapebús/Campos on Saturday afternoon (15), in Gávea, was enough for Flamengo to advance to the final round of the second phase of the Otávio Pinto Guimarães Tournament at the top of its group. Even better: benefiting from Fluminense's surprising 1-0 home defeat to Tigres, the Mais Querido opened up a three-point lead and a two-goal difference over the tricolor. Therefore, even a 1-0 defeat in the decisive Fla x Flu match next Sunday, the 23rd, in Xerém, will be enough for Mengão to qualify for another final of the competition.

Saturday's match at Gávea was more complicated than the fans expected. Slow and predictable, Flamengo didn't perform well, despite completely dominating the first half. In the 25th minute, right-back Kleber made a good play and was brought down inside the box. The penalty, well taken by Gabriel Ramos, gave Flamengo more peace of mind and made the score fairer.

 

The second half was even more challenging. With the confidence boost from their strong defensive performance, which neutralized the red-and-black attack, Carapebús began to enjoy the game and became dangerous on the counterattack. Secure in their play, Mengão's defense effectively controlled all of the visiting team's attempts. In the 40th minute, center forward Daniel made an excellent individual play and left Patrick face-to-face with the goal. He made no mistake, and he gave the match its final score.

 

"Our goal is the title. That's what Flamengo always strives for. Our team has been fighting hard, showing great commitment and unity. Today's victory was very important in the competition. We could have had a better result, but 2-0 gives us the lead and the advantage for the decisive Fla vs. Flu match in the last round," said Patrick.

 

The derby, which will determine the group's representative and the OPG Tournament final, is scheduled for next Sunday, the 23rd, at 16 pm, in Xerém. After today's match, Flamengo can lose by up to one goal and still qualify for the final.