With Maracanã packed, Flamengo beat Bahia 2-0 this Thursday (31), and maintained their lead in the Brazilian Championship. The goals were scored in the first half by Diego and Lucas Paquetá.

Coming off performances considered below average by critics, Paquetá finished the match as one of the best players on the field and spoke to the press about his positioning and the instructions from interim coach Mauricio Barbieri.

“First of all, I’m happy with Flamengo’s victory. I’m also happy to be able to play well again and help the team with my best on the field. Of course, when you don’t play well, criticism appears, but I use that as an incentive to improve. I feel better playing in midfield, more freely. Barbieri always talks to me based on the characteristics of the opponent; sometimes he pulls me back a little to help with the build-up play, but I’m happy with my performance and to be able to help Flamengo.” – analyzed the number 11.

Surely the 55 people present at the Maracanã left very satisfied with the result and the lead, but also with the beautiful goal they witnessed this afternoon. Leaving the stadium, Paquetá commented on his masterpiece.

“As soon as I got the ball and passed it to Renê, I noticed that the defenders moved out and opened up space for me to penetrate the area. Renê was very fortunate to find that pass for me; I already had that goal in mind. When the goalkeeper came out, I chipped the ball over him, and I'm very happy to have scored,” said the Flamengo midfielder.

The next match for the Most Beloved will be against Corinthians, this Sunday (3), at 16 pm, for the ninth round of the Brazilian Championship, at Maracanã. The Nation is called upon to support Mengão once again. Secure your ticket at: http://flamengo.com.br/ingressos