A simple draw would have been enough for the Mais Querido to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Copa RS Internacional. But without paying attention to the rules, the Garotos do Ninho entered the decisive match against Santos on Sunday night (11.12/4) hungry for victory and with the spirit that governs the Manto Sagrado. With this combination, the result could not have been different. With the impressive 1-13.12 victory (Bambu own, Patrick, Lucas Silva and Casanova own), Flamengo returns to the quarterfinals of the competition after three years, and will face Ponte Preta next Tuesday (16/XNUMX) at XNUMX pm, at the SESC Stadium.

In the 8th minute, Flamengo nearly opened the scoring with a fine finish from striker Lincoln. The game remained evenly matched until the 33rd minute, when midfielder Gabriel Silva unleashed a superb shot from outside the box and nearly broke the deadlock. Immediately afterward, Flamengo struck back. Patrick rolled the ball just in time for Kleber to pass at speed, who delivered a low, precise cross that would have found Lincoln under the net. Defender Bambu tried to anticipate the ball and ended up scoring an own goal. In the 43rd minute, Flamengo's play was misplaced, and Santos tied the match.

As has been the case throughout the competition, Flamengo came out much stronger for the second half, despite not making any changes at halftime. In the third minute, Gabriel Silva received the ball one-on-one with the defender, pedaled inside the box, and was awarded a penalty kick well taken by Patrick, who made it 3-2. The ball hit both posts before going in. Flamengo began to control the result and killed the game with a quick counterattack in the 1th minute. Lincoln left Lucas Silva, who had just come on, in front of goal. With his first touch, he displaced the goalkeeper and gave Flamengo even more peace of mind, making it 36-3. There was still time for Flamengo to score the fourth in the 1nd minute. Kleber crossed, and this time it was Casanova who scored an own goal.

"I was a little tense at the start of the match, making my debut in the competition in a crucial match. But I soon calmed down. I'd like to thank coach Gilmar Popoca and the entire group for their confidence, which is fantastic and gave me a lot of support. Especially André Baumer. I came on in his place, as he was suspended today for picking up two yellow cards. Before the match, he gave me a big hug and gave me some encouraging words. This gave me a lot of strength and confidence to put in a good performance," said defender Rafael, who made his debut in the competition and had a very confident performance.

In the quarterfinals of the Copa RS Internacional, Flamengo faces Ponte Preta on Tuesday, December 13.12, at 16 p.m. at the SESC Stadium. The match will be broadcast live on SporTV. The winner will advance to the semifinals. In the event of a tie, the match will be decided by penalty kicks. 

Final classification – GROUP B

1st Santos – 9pts

2nd Flamengo – 7pts

3rd Cruise – 5pts 

4th Criciúma – 5pts 

5th Toluca (MEX) – 1pt