In the semifinals showdown between Flamengo and Vasco da Gama, Flamengo capitalized on their home field advantage to win by the score of 2-1 on Sunday.
The win advances Flamengo into the finals of the second half of the state tournament against Botafogo on April 18.
Vagner Love scored his first goal of the match in the 10th minute of play. The striker received a great through ball from Bruno Mezenga, controlling the ball directly in front of the Vasco da Gama net. Love then dribbled past goalkeeper Fernando Prass, leaving him flat on the ground, and lofting the ball into the far right side of the net.
Vasco da Gama tied the match in the 30th minute. Off a corner kick, Thiago Martinelli headed in the game-tying goal.
However, Flamengo was awarded a penalty kick after Marcio Careca tackled Leonardo Moura. Vagner Love stepped in to take the penalty kick in the 71st minute, firing the ball past Prass and giving his team the lead and victory. Love scored his 14th goal of the state championship, leading the competition.
With the single round elimination win, Flamengo advances to play Botafogo in the finals of the second half of play. Should Botafogo win, they will be the undisputed champions of the state tournament. Should Flamengo win, they will face Botafogo again in a two-round match for the state title.
Flamengo’s Juan received his second yellow card of the match and will be unable to participate in the finals of the second half against Botafogo on April 18.