Flamengo was defeated by Botafogo in the semifinals of the Campeonato Carioca. Despite the pressure during the 90 minutes plus stoppage time, the team failed to find a goal, conceded one, and saw its chances of securing its second championship title vanish. Now, the focus turns to the Libertadores and Brasileirão.

Constant pressure, but a disadvantage on the scoreboard

From the moment the referee blew the whistle to get the ball rolling, the match was set up with only one team attacking: Flamengo. With Everton on the wing, Vinicius Junior up front, and Willian Arão in the middle, the red-and-blacks' attempt was to build momentum down the flanks and hound the opposing team. Botafogo closed down the spaces as best they could and counterattacked. Thus, the first opportunities didn't arrive until the 23rd minute, both from Willian Arão. The first, a shot from outside the box, deflected off the defense and led to a corner. The second, a dangerous header after the penalty.

In the air, Mengão posed more danger. Rhodolfo also threatened, forcing Jeferson into a great save. The team persisted, but couldn't find the net. And near the end of the first 45 minutes, they were punished: Luiz Fernando opened the scoring for Botafogo.

Insistence until the end

The second half began with two changes: Cuéllar and Geuvânio came on in place of Jonas and Willian Arão. Flamengo launched into the attack, dominating the opposing half throughout. Chances abounded, with shots hitting the post, passing very close to the goal, and forcing the opposing goalkeeper to work, but none of them went in. Thus, Flamengo ended up defeated and ended its participation in the 2018 Campeonato Carioca.