It was a knockout match. The Maracanã stadium was packed with nearly 55 red-and-black fans. The celebration? Worthy of the tradition of the nation that represents us. The atmosphere was one of pure tension, and at the final whistle, the scoreboard showed Mengão had qualified. All was well on this Wednesday of football. 

The game started frantically. Needing a simple win to secure their spot, Flamengo went all out and put pressure on Grêmio. Their momentum quickly paid off, and after a captivating play, Everton Ribeiro slotted the ball into the back of the net to open the scoring.

With the advantage, the team opted for a more reactive game. They pressed hard in defense, did everything they could to close down the opponent's space, and sought counterattacks. Despite Grêmio's greater possession, Diego Alves faced no major threats.

And so it went until the final whistle of the first half and the start of the second half. Grêmio went all out, needing a result to trigger a penalty shootout. Flamengo had patience and emotional control to spare.

Barbieri unleashed Marlos's speed before the 15th minute. With the Colombian's speed, the Red-Blacks improved and began working their way back up the attack. They built plays and nearly scored a second goal in the 34th minute. Marlos took a shot, but the ball was blocked, and Dourado was blocked by the defense. 

When he was about to bring on Uribe for Dourado, Barbieri had to replace Arão with Cuéllar, who was out with an injury. There were just over six minutes left plus stoppage time.

Like every end of a game, there was drama and apprehension, but Mengão won: 1-0. Let's go, Flamengo!

Now, Flamengo will face Corinthians for a spot in the final. The home team order will be decided by a draw at the CBF.