Flamengo defeated Fortaleza 2-1 in the sixth round of the Brazilian Championship on Wednesday at Maracanã. After a loss to Bragantino in the previous round, Rogerio Ceni’s team dominated the opponent in the first half, scoring two goals, with Bruno Henrique netting a brace. However, the main talking point of the game was Gerson, who played his final game in a red and black jersey.

David made it 2-1 for the visitors just seconds into the second half, and they began to put more pressure on Fla, forcing Diego Alves to make outstanding saves.

End of an era for Gerson

Gerson’s Flamengo career came to an end with this game. In the 68th minute, the defensive midfielder came close to scoring his last goal for the club but Felipe Alves made a wonderful save to deny the number 8 the chance.

The defensive midfielder was able to end his time with the red-black shirt with a win after 704 days, 109 games, and eight titles. Gerson is expected to join French side Olympique de Marseille.

“Imagine saying farewell to the club where you always cheered, grieved in defeat, and smiled in success as a child, and one day you will be able to wear your shirt. Imagine having to say goodbye, and what goes through your mind”- Gerson said after the game.

With the win, Flamengo moved up to seventh place with nine points. Fortaleza still remains in third place with 11 points after ending their 21-game unbeaten streak.

On Sunday, Flamengo takes on Juventude at Alfredo Jaconi, while Fortaleza takes on Grêmio at Arena do Grêmio.