With grit, with passion, undefeated: Flamengo/Marinha is the three-time Carioca champion
Girls from Gávea beat Duque de Caixas in Sapucaia and secured the State title
By Mariana Sa - inThe undefeated run in the first phase was no coincidence. The 100% success rate reflected a work filled with effort, sweat, and a lot of love for women's football. Flamengo/Marinha arrived at the Ênio Teixeira stadium in Sapucaia (RJ) knowing the responsibility they carried. Facing Duque de Caxias on Saturday afternoon (28), the Meninas da Gávea went all out in pursuit of one goal: the third Carioca championship.
The first half was a brilliant one for the red-and-blacks. While Duque de Caxias expected to face a cautious Flamengo, they were surprised by the grit and power of the Mais Querido's attack. Just six minutes in, Ju tried to speed up and saw a corner kick deflected. From the spot, the number 6 placed the ball on Daiana's head, who powerfully tapped it into the back of the net.
It didn't take long for the Meninas da Gávea to extend their lead. In the 9th minute, Diany called for the ball and took a masterful free kick, knocking the opposing goalkeeper out of the play and extending the lead. Putting intense pressure on Duque, Flamengo/Marinha added a third three minutes later, when top scorer Flávia capitalized on a poor clearance and scored.
Flamengo then began to press Maike's goal, balancing the score for the next few minutes. In the 32nd minute, Caneca reduced the deficit with a powerful free kick, leaving the Flamengo goalkeeper with no chance. Flamengo's response, however, was swift. On the following play, Bárbara launched a quick counterattack to score Flamengo's fourth. To round off the first-half scoring, defender Renata took advantage of a mix-up in the box and scored, heading into halftime with a 5-1 lead.
The second half started at a fast pace. Just four minutes in, Renata scored another goal, putting Flamengo in a strong position. Dominating the attack, Flamengo extended their lead when Flávia converted a penalty from Pâmela. Shortly after, Ju and Nathane scored before the timeout.
In the final stretch of the second half, Duque de Caxias began to press and scored two more goals through Camili. However, Ju stepped up, scoring Flamengo's tenth goal and securing the third championship for the Meninas da Gávea.
For Mais Querido, the 10-3 victory over Duque de Caxias does not end their participation in the Campeonato Carioca. The champions still have one more mission next Saturday (4.11), when they face América, at 16 pm, at CEFAN.
For Mais Querido, the 10-3 victory over Duque de Caxias does not end their participation in the Campeonato Carioca. The champions still have one more mission next Saturday (4.11), when they face América, at 16 pm, at CEFAN.