Argentine forward Joaquín Freitas compared the atmosphere of the Rio derby between Flamengo and Fluminense to the intense South American rivalry following their win at the Maracanã.
The atmosphere in Brazilian soccer continues to leave a strong impression on foreign players newly arrived on the national stage.
Following the 1-0 victory over their rivals from Laranjeiras, part of the 30th round of the Brazilian Serie A, the festive environment in the stadium stands gained international attention.
The match brought together over 63,000 fans in Rio, providing a spectacle that evoked the most traditional rivalries of the South American continent.
A parallel to the Superclásico
Subbed into the match in the second half, the number 30 Joaquín Freitas played for 26 minutes, helping to energize the attack for the team managed by Leonardo Jardim.
The presence of both sets of fans in the stadium was one of the aspects most praised by the foreign athlete, who has experience with high-intensity derbies in his home country.
The truth is the atmosphere is beautiful; the way both sets of fans were today is something to really enjoy—a true derby atmosphere. I’ve experienced Boca vs. River, which is also a very beautiful environment, but having both sets of fans here adds a special flavor, and the truth is we really enjoyed it. They have a great team, and I think it was a beautiful match for those watching, and luckily, we managed to get the win.
Trajectory and upcoming challenges
Announced at the beginning of September with a contract running through 2031, the center-forward has made four appearances and recorded one assist for the club, looking to solidify his place in the final stretch of the season.
The Rio side’s next challenge comes this Thursday (15), when Flamengo travels to Argentina to face Estudiantes for the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinals.
The return leg is scheduled for October 22, once again at the Maracanã, where the squad will look to secure their spot in the continental final.
