Gabigol and Arrascaeta find their scoring touch again, while Juventude’s risk of relegation increases.
In a thrilling match at Maracanã, Flamengo defeated Juventude 4-2 on Saturday afternoon in the 31st round of the Brazilian Championship. Goals from Michael, Gabigol, Arrascaeta, and Plata secured the victory for the Rubro-Negro, while Gilberto and Edson Carioca scored for Juventude, who had Nenê sent off in the second half, complicating their search for an equalizer. This result leaves Flamengo with a slim chance of competing for the title, while Juventude dangerously approaches the relegation zone. Discover the best football updates on scoreapp.
The win brought Flamengo to 54 points, narrowing the gap to leader Botafogo to 10 points, with one game in hand. Despite the remote chances, the Rubro-Negro remains hopeful of closing in on the top spot in the upcoming rounds.
For Juventude, the defeat worsens their situation in the standings, keeping them in 16th place with 34 points. They risk being surpassed by Athletico and Corinthians, which would drop them into the relegation zone by the end of the round, increasing pressure for the next matches.
The game also marked the end of the goal drought for Gabigol and Arrascaeta. The number 9 scored from the penalty spot, finding the net for the first time in three months, while the Uruguayan midfielder scored his first goal since September, bringing relief to the Rubro-Negro fans who had been waiting for the duo to return to form.
Juventude had reasons to contest the officiating, particularly regarding the penalty that restored Flamengo’s lead in the second half. In that incident, Gerson fell in the box after contact with Mandaca, and Gabigol converted the penalty. Shortly after, Nenê, who had come on in the second half, was sent off after protesting, intensifying the visitors’ dissatisfaction with the refereeing.
Next Wednesday, Flamengo will face Internacional at Beira-Rio in a postponed match, while Juventude will take on Fortaleza on Saturday in a direct clash to try to distance themselves from the relegation zone and secure their place in Série A. Stay on top of the game with BB Score.
