Athletico-PR takes advantage of rivals’ slip-ups, keeps a dominant winning streak alive, and firmly establishes itself in the direct pursuit of Flamengo in the Brazilian Serie A standings.
The 20th round of the Brazilian Championship confirmed the golden moment of the Furacão. In a matchday where most of the leaders faltered, the Parana-based squad made the most of their home-field advantage at Arena da Baixada, defeating Internacional 2-0 and proving that the race for the top spots is more open than ever.
With this triumph, the Curitiba side became the only member of the top six to take home three points this weekend. The scenario highlights the team’s excellent form, which is now putting pressure on Flamengo, the league’s second-placed team, keeping Rubro-Negro fans wary of how close they have climbed in the standings.
The strength of the Furacão in numbers
The recent performance is no coincidence. Over the last five matches, Athletico has collected 13 out of a possible 15 points, establishing a run of four consecutive victories. No other Serie A club has posted such impressive numbers in this stretch of the tournament, showcasing a remarkable tactical setup.
Beyond defensive solidity and offensive efficiency, the club has distinguished itself as the best home team in the championship, reaching 26 points on their home turf. Palmeiras’ loss to Atlético-MG was the final push the Furacão needed to sovereignly claim that spot in the national elite.
“The moment calls for keeping our feet on the ground and continuing to focus game by game, as the competitiveness of this championship requires us to always be at our maximum level of intensity and tactical organization.”
Eyes on the pursuit of the ‘Mengão’
The gap to Flamengo, who drew with São Paulo at the Maracanã, has dropped to just two points. Although the Mais Querido still has a game in hand, the psychological pressure is mounting with Athletico in their rearview mirror. The Rio-based Rubro-Negro knows that any slip-up now will cost them vital positions in the race for the top.
The Furacão’s next challenge is a baptism of fire: a visit to Corinthians at the Neo Química Arena next Thursday at 7:30 PM. Historically, the away match against the São Paulo side is a taboo that the Parana-based team has been looking to break since 2009. Maintaining this overwhelming pace will be the necessary fuel to continue dreaming of even higher goals this season.
Mengão 360
