The game started slowly but it was the Rubro-Negro that dominated possession early on. However, none of their plays threatened the Volta Redonda goal at the time. If anything at all, it was the Voltaço that came close to breaking the deadlock. Pedrinho struck in a shot early on that was kept at bay by Diego Alves.
Gradually, Flamengo grew into the game and Ribeiro almost hit the target from outside the area around 17 minutes.
Four minutes later, the Rubro-Negro would open the scoring. Filipe Luís sent the ball to Gabigol who reacted quickly and found Bruno Henrique clear on goal. The Brazilian made no mistake and made a perfect finish to balance the net.
Bruno Henrique almost found the net again but could only see his shot go into the goalkeeper’s hands.
The first half ended in that score-line but not for long. Four minutes after the second half, Gabigol once again found Bruno Henrique in similar fashion and he got his second of the evening. It all comcluded in what was an easy win for Jorge Jesuus’ men.
The victory for Flamengo means as champion of the Guanabara Cup, they have the chance to win Carioca in advance – without the need for a grand final.
For that to happen though they must win the Rio Cup when they face Fluminense next on Wednesday. There would be no advantage for both sides and the venue and time of the fixture is yet to be announced.
