Closing the Mais Querido's participation in the 2017 edition of the Brazilian Championship, an exciting victory. This Sunday (03), coach Reinaldo Rueda's team visited Vitória, at Barradão, seeking to guarantee direct qualification for the group stage of the next Copa Libertadores da América through the national championship. Goals from Rafael Vaz and Diego, completing the 2-1 comeback, made the objective achieved.

During the first half, the action was evenly balanced. Felipe Vizeu twice created dangerous chances for the Rio de Janeiro team. However, the opposition was more efficient in front of goal and went into halftime ahead. After receiving a pass inside the box, Carlos Eduardo struck with his left foot to open the scoring in Salvador.

In the final period of the match, the Mais Querido returned to the field with greater defensive security and quality in the creative phase. Aiding the team in the offensive phase, Vinicius Jr. contributed with good plays down the left flank. From this sector of the field, the young number 20 made a great play and rolled the ball into the middle of the opponent's penalty area. Arão set up Rafael Vaz, who struck with skill, counting on a slight deflection off the defense to send the ball into the back of the net. It was Flamengo's equalizer.

The most intense emotions were still saved for the final minutes of the match. After an incredible play, Vinicius Jr. dribbled past two opposing players and was brought down at the edge of the box. Diego, Trauco, and Rafael Vaz positioned themselves for the shot, taken by the number 35.

The ball was headed toward goal, but Uillian Correia deflected it with his arm, and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Diego, the Mais Querido's captain tonight, needed to convert the penalty. Responsibility in decisive moments has been with the midfielder throughout his career, and today was no exception. With precision, the number 35 struck a powerful shot that bulged the net, sending the crowd at Barradão into a frenzy and putting Flamengo ahead.

With a spot in the group stage of the continent's most important competition secured, it's time to turn our attention to the big decision of 2017. This Wednesday (06), at the Libertadores de América Stadium, it will be time for Mais Querido to face Independiente, from Argentina, in the first match of the Conmebol Sudamericana decision. The ball will roll in Avellaneda, in greater Buenos Aires, starting at 21:45 pm Brasília time.

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