This time, there was no one-two punch, but the Empire of Love once again made the difference against Flamengo. Adriano scored three times and Vagner Love also scored in the Rubro-Negro's heroic 5-3 comeback victory over Fluminense at Maracanã this Sunday. The Gávea team's attacking duo also featured a stellar performance from young Vinícius Pacheco, who had a hand in three of Flamengo's five goals, to shine and drive the Flamengo fans wild.

\

Still dreaming of participating in the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the two hope to help each other and Flamengo achieve what the fans demanded in a new song sung in the stands: a fourth title in Rio, the Libertadores, and the World Cup. Without vanity, the duo dreams of ever better days in Gávea.

\

"We play for each other. Adriano is a top-notch player, I consider myself a top-notch player, and there's no vanity between us. When we both strive for the same goal, it works," said Vagner Love, whose speech was endorsed by Adriano: "We're always talking, we're together for the same goals, and we know we can help each other. If we continue like this, we can fight for a spot in the World Cup and bring a lot of joy to the fans."

\

Despite the duo's stellar performance, coach Andrade prefers to emphasize the dedication and commitment of all the players. According to the red-and-black manager, this was a victory that truly reflects this team.

\

"We have to praise the group, that's what's important. The team fought hard and achieved a great result. It's a great step towards our qualification and everyone deserves congratulations," he said.

\

In three games for Flamengo, the duo has put up impressive numbers. Together, they've scored eight goals—four each.