Filipe Luís' debut as Flamengo coach started on the right foot in the Brazilian Championship

Flamengo is going through a moment of important transition. After the departure of the previous coach, the board chose to bet on a name that already knew the club's backstage very well and had the respect of the players: Filipe Luís. The former left-back, who marked his time with the Rubro-Negro shirt , was promoted to the role of coach and debuted on the right foot by beating Bahia 2-0 away from home. Filipe's debut not only brought the three points, but also a glimpse of what can be called "Filipism", a philosophy that mixes experience, tactical reading and a touch of innovation.

The game was a real test for the new commander. With Bahia under pressure and fighting to move away from the relegation zone, Flamengo needed patience and discipline to achieve the result. Gerson, who has increasingly established himself as the team's technical leader, was the highlight, dictating the pace in midfield and directly contributing to the match's two goals. The first half was truncated, with few clear chances for both sides, but Filipe Luís' tactical changes at halftime gave Rubro-Negro a new look.

FLAMENGO MUCH MORE ABOVE 

Flamengo's main characteristic under command from Filipe Luís was defensive compactness and quick release into the attack. The coach assembled a team that knew how to suffer when necessary, but that also did not give up on proposing the game. Gerson's presence in midfield was fundamental to this balance. The number 8 retreated to help with the construction and advanced with quality when the team needed to accelerate. It was his pass that led to the first goal, scored by Pedro, who found the net again after a period of drought.

With the victory, Flamengo remains firm in the fight for first place and brings new hope to the fans. Filipe Luís' experience as a high-level player, both in Europe and in Brazil, is an asset that few beginning coaches have. His reading of the game was clear on several occasions during the match. He did not hesitate to correct the posture of some players and adjust the team as Bahia changed its strategy. This ability to adapt quickly will be crucial in the next challenges, as Flamengo's calendar is tight and full of direct confrontations.

< b>FLAMENGO EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

Another positive point was the intensity shown by the players. Filipe managed to get the best out of names that had been fluctuating during the season, such as Gabigol and Arrascaeta. Both actively participated in offensive actions and helped build the victory. It is clear that the squad bought the new coach's idea, and this was reflected in their behavior on the field. Flamengo proved to be a united team committed to Filipe Luís' project, something that was not seen so clearly in recent months.

Despite the positive result, there are still adjustments to be made. Filipe Luís made it clear in his press conference that the team is far from ideal. "We have a lot to improve, especially on the defensive side. We can't give the opponent so many opportunities", commented the coach, who also highlighted Gerson's importance in the scheme. "He's our thermometer. When he's good, the whole team plays better." Filipe's words reflect his vision of a Flamengo that favors possession of the ball and control of actions, but that also needs to be more lethal and confident when defending.