Despite numerous absences, Flamengo demonstrated the strength of its squad, defeating Duque de Caxias 3-2 in its season debut. Without star players Adriano and Petkovic, and with starters Leonardo Moura, Juan, and Ronaldo Angelim, as well as the latest reinforcement Vagner Love and the still-injured Maldonado, Flamengo prevailed thanks to the talent of its midfielders: Kleberson, Fierro, and debutant Fernando. The match took place on Sunday afternoon, January 17th, at Maracanã Stadium.

See the photo gallery. The images are by Daniel Zappe of the VIPCOMM agency.