Flamengo suffers defeat to Grêmio in the Brazilian Championship
Rubro-Negro has a double clash against Cruzeiro next week
By Lucas Dantas - inFlamengo returned to the field this Saturday for another match in the Brazilian Championship. Their rival was Grêmio, in Porto Alegre, and the match was about maintaining their lead in the competition. But on a night of little inspiration, the Mais Querido ended up losing 2-0, with goals from Jael and Marinho, one in each half. Flamengo returns to the field for the Brazilian Championship next Sunday (12), at Maracanã, at 16 pm, against Cruzeiro. Before that, on Wednesday (08), Cruzeiro will be their opponent in the Copa Conmebol Libertadores, also at Maracanã.
With few changes to the starting lineup, Flamengo capitalized on the space in the game and displayed more synergy than their rivals throughout the first half. However, chances were few and far between, as the team lacked the final pass. Despite 65% possession, only one shot reached Paulo Victor's goal during the first 30 minutes.
Grêmio had the best chance. In the 27th minute, Cortez's cross hit Rodinei's arm, and the referee awarded a penalty. Jael took the shot, and Diego Alves saved his third since joining Flamengo. The game continued with few thrills or threats, and it was Grêmio who took the lead, Jael, in the 47th minute, after Leonardo's cross from the right.
Early in the second half, things got worse. Marinho received a pass from Jael and scored Grêmio's second goal. Flamengo maintained the majority of possession but failed to create the chances to score. Cuéllar and Renê received yellow cards and are out of the match against Cruzeiro next Sunday at Maracanã. Mauricio Barbieri brought on Marlos Moreno, Geuvânio, and Lincoln, but it was not Flamengo's night, as they suffered their third defeat in the Brazilian Championship.