FLAMENGO'S OPPONENT IN THE BRAZIL CUP, AMAZONAS BEATS SANTOS IN SERIES B

Flamengo's rival in the third phase of the Copa do Brasil, Amazonas FC was responsible for the great “zebra” of the fourth round of Series B. This Saturday (11), the team achieved a 1-0 victory over Santos, at Arena da Amazônia, first triumph in the team's history in the second division and which also marked the end of the opponent's unbeaten run.

The goal of the game was scored by striker Ênio in a beautiful play in the 18th minute of the first stage. He took advantage just after the midfield line, headed towards the area with the ball under control and hit a strong finish from outside the area to score. The ball hit the crossbar and stopped inside goalkeeper João Paulo's goal, who practically didn't react to the attacker's powerful shot.

The victory would already be history as it was the first for Amazonas FC, founded in 2019, in history of Série B, but it was certainly even more special because it was against Santos. The rival had 100% success and is a big favorite for the title. No wonder the 17. 672 present at Arenas da Amazônia had a big party and the game ended with shouts of “olé”.

Amazonas x Santos also marked the return of experienced striker Jô. He was arrested in São Paulo, last week, while the team was on the way to face Ponte Preta. The athlete was arrested for non-payment of child support, slept in jail, and was released last Tuesday (7) after payment.

Flamengo has an advantage against Amazonas in the Copa do Brasil

The match that will decide the qualification for the round of 16 of the Copa do Brasil takes place on May 22nd, Wednesday, at 9:30 pm, at Arena da Amazônia. After a 1-0 victory at Maracanã, Mengão has the advantage of a draw to guarantee a place in the next phase. Furthermore, defeat by a minimum score leads to a penalty shootout.

The first match was marked by poor football from Flamengo and difficulty in overcoming the defense set up by coach Adilson Batista. However, the need for Amazonas to attack if they want to qualify tends to create more spaces for the red-black team on the field. The favoritism is clear for Rubro-Negro.

But Amazonas and Flamengo have commitments before facing each other. Mais Querido has a decisive duel with Bolívar this Wednesday (15th), in the Libertadores, and then a classic with Vasco on Sunday (18th). Amazonas faces Ceará and Paysandu on the same days, both in Series B.