Late equalizer denies Flamengo victory, postpones top spot dream in Brazilian Women’s League.
Flamengo missed a valuable opportunity to close in on the lead in the Brazilian Women’s Championship. In an electrifying match for the 13th round, the Rubro-Negras drew 2-2 with Grêmio, in a game played at the Luso-Brasileiro Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.
The goal that sealed the score, and Flamengo’s frustration, came in stoppage time of the second half, at the 46th minute, spoiling the taste of victory.
After two consecutive wins before the World Cup break, the team led by Fabi Simões was seeking a third straight win to solidify their position in the fight for the top spots. However, the league’s resumption brought a bitter result that keeps the team in fourth place, with 23 points from 13 games.
A Comeback That Evaporated
The game started with Grêmio dictating the pace and opening the scoring in the 16th minute, with Leidiane capitalizing on a defensive error from Flamengo during buildup play. Flamengo’s response, however, was quick and precise. In the 20th minute, after a play down the flank and a scramble in the box, Mariana Fernandes appeared to tap the ball into the back of the net, equalizing the score and igniting the crowd.
The ‘Mais Querido’ Takes the Lead, But Briefly
The second half began with Flamengo showing strength and taking the lead in the 4th minute. Fabi Simões orchestrated a beautiful individual play, dribbled past defenders, and crossed for Fernandinha, who, with opportunism, finished first-time to put the Mais Querido (Flamengo’s nickname) ahead. The feeling was that a third consecutive victory was within reach.
The Punishment for Lacking Focus
However, football, once again, showed its unpredictability. The lead on the scoreboard seemed to bring a certain complacency to Flamengo, allowing Grêmio to grow into the match. And the saying ‘the ball punishes’ materialized in the final moments.
In the 46th minute, Rodriguez made a spectacular run down the right, crossed low, and despite a touch from goalkeeper Vivi, Iara managed to push the ball into the goal, sealing the draw and ending Flamengo’s dream of victory.
Next Challenge and Important Absence
With the result, Flamengo remains in fourth place in the Brazilian Women’s Championship, with 23 points, trailing Corinthians (28), Palmeiras (27), and São Paulo (26). The race for a spot in the knockout stage, where the top eight teams qualify, remains fierce. The Rubro-Negras’ next match will be on August 3rd, against leaders Corinthians, again at the Luso-Brasileiro Stadium, at 6:30 PM.
For this match, the team will be without Cristiane, the team’s star player, who received her third yellow card. The game promises to be another exciting chapter in Flamengo‘s quest for a prominent place in national women’s football.
