Sesc RJ Flamengo concluded the qualifying phase of the Women's Superliga with an important victory against the red-black Nation. This Friday (21.03), coach Bernardinho's team defeated Batavo Mackenzie 3 sets to 0, with partial scores of 25-19, 28-26 and 25-9, at Maracanãzinho. With the result, the Rio de Janeiro team reached 42 points, advanced in sixth place and will face Osasco São Cristóvão Saúde (3rd) in the quarterfinals, in a best-of-three, on dates to be confirmed by the CBV.

Outside hitter Helena was the game's top scorer with 14, and middle blocker Juju followed with 12. Another standout was libero Laís, winner of the VivaVôlei Trophy for best on court. She highlighted the strength of the squad, which has faced a marathon of matches in recent weeks.

"Now it's a different championship. The opponent doesn't matter. We're very focused on putting on a great performance at this crucial moment in the Superliga. The third set was proof of that. We've been traveling and playing tough matches, and we were able to overcome everything and play well. We showed we're prepared; everyone was able to participate and help. If one needs help, the other will step in and give their all. We're a very strong group in that sense," Laís emphasized.

The Red-Blacks grew throughout the match, fueled by the strength of their fans, and calmly overcame the difficulties imposed by the Minas Gerais team, especially in the second set. In the third set, the home team put on a show of tactical application, locking down their blocking well, opening up an 18-6 lead, and closing it out comfortably. With their sights set on the playoffs, Bernardinho took the opportunity to rotate the squad, bringing in outside hitters Michelle and Mikaela, and middle blocker Adria.  

Tribute to Olympic champion Sassá

At the end of the game, Sesc RJ Flamengo paid a special tribute to Olympic champion Sassá, of Batavo Mackenzie, who officially retired from the courts tonight at the temple of world volleyball. A Flamengo fan with memorable performances for the Rio de Janeiro team during her successful career, the athlete received a Flamengo jersey from Bernardinho and couldn't hide her emotion..