In coach Jorge Jesus' first official match as Flamengo coach, the team drew 1-1 with Athletico-PR at Arena da Baixada in the first leg of the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals. Léo Pereira opened the scoring for the Paraná team, and Gabigol equalized for the Mais Querido. The return leg will be at Maracanã next Wednesday.

First time

Flamengo struggled in the first half due to the Arena's synthetic turf. The ball traveled too much, and Mengão's players were slow to adapt. Despite this, Jorge Jesus' team created good chances and could have taken the lead against Athletico. Vitinho had a good chance after just three minutes, but the ball went wide. On other counterattacks, the team failed to find the final pass. Diego Alves secured a 3-0 draw from deep.

Second time

Early in the second half, Flamengo conceded a goal from Athletico, scored by Léo Pereira, after a corner kick from the right. But they didn't give in and equalized in the 19th minute with a beautiful goal from Gabriel. The team improved with the introductions of Diego and Everton Ribeiro and almost came from behind. Arrascaeta had a great chance, but was stopped by the Furacão defense. Bruno Henrique was stopped by goalkeeper Santos with a header. On defense, Mengão held its own well. It's worth noting that Athletico had three goals rightly disallowed by the referee. 

And now?

Flamengo returns to the field this Sunday, at 11 am, at Maracanã, to face Goiás, in the Brazilian Championship.