Flamengo was defeated by Botafogo this Saturday at the Engenhão stadium, distancing itself from the title race. The 2-1 victory for its rival kept the team six points behind leaders Palmeiras, who still have a chance to open up a nine-point lead. Vitinho scored the red-and-black goal in the second half, but it wasn't enough to tie the match. Botafogo scored the goals in the first half, through Erik and Leo Valencia, and the result helped them somewhat in their fight to avoid their third relegation in history. 

Flamengo completely dominated the match, but failed to effectively finish the first half and ended up seeing Botafogo score two goals in close intervals. In the 18th minute, Erik received a pass and ran in front of Réver, getting free to shoot past César. Ten minutes later, Leo Valencia took a direct free kick, surprising the Flamengo defense, and extended the lead. 

Flamengo found its goal just three minutes into the second half. Pará ran down the right and crossed precisely for Vitinho to head past Gatito. From that moment on, Botafogo locked down their half, waiting for counterattack opportunities and saw Flamengo create several opportunities, but failed to convert and find the equalizer. Now, Flamengo will resume training on Monday, aiming for the match against Santos on Thursday the 15th, the club's anniversary, at the Maracanã.