Sesc RJ Flamengo defeated Paulistano Barueri and secured qualification for the Copa Brasil semifinals. This Friday (January 23.01), coach Bernardinho's team closed the match in 3 sets to 0, with partial scores of 25-15, 25-16 and 25-21, at Tijuca, in the quarterfinals of the tournament, which brings together the eight best teams from the first round of the Superliga. The Flamengo team awaits Osasco São Cristóvão Saúde or Fluminense in the next phase.

With libero Victoria among the starters in place of captain Laís, who was sidelined after feeling discomfort in her right knee during training, the home team imposed a strong rhythm in the first two sets and didn't let the São Paulo team breathe. In the third set, despite the difficulties imposed by Paulistano Barueri, the Rio de Janeiro team showed wisdom and unity to come away with the positive result. Opposite hitter Tainara, with 15 points, was the top scorer of the night.

A product of Flamengo's youth academy, 21-year-old Victoria showed personality, shone in the backcourt, and was awarded the VivaVôlei Trophy for best player on the court.

"I tried to stay focused and determined. We trained a lot every day and I knew that this opportunity could somehow arise. I was prepared. I did a lot of extra training. Replacing Laís isn't easy, after all she's one of the best in Brazil. I'm sure she'll recover soon and come back stronger too. We're a close-knit team and everyone gave me complete confidence. I'm very grateful for this opportunity," said Victoria, satisfied with the group's ability to help each other in difficult times.

"We started very confidently, we studied their team very well. The third set went a little off track, but even so, with the strength of the team, we managed to come back and recover to win 3-0," said the libero.

Sesc RJ Flamengo returns to the court next Tuesday (January 27.01th), at 21 pm, against Osasco São Cristóvão Saúde, at home, for the seventh round of the Superliga's second leg.