By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Vasco and Fluminense will meet in the final of the Taça Guanabara, the Campeonato Carioca’s opening stage, after this week’s semi-finals. Last night, Fluminense beat Botafogo on penalties after a 1-1 draw, whilst the previous evening Vasco prevailed 2-1 over Flamengo.
Fluminense controlled the majority of play with Fogão seemingly content to try and hit on the counter. But their caution appeared to be paying off when Herrera beat Flu’s defense to cross for Elkeson, who finished from close range.
Flu hit back after just five minutes when Leandro Euzebio showed the prowess of a striker to finish with aplomb inside the box.
The game went to spot-kicks and after Jean missed for Nense, Lucas and Loco Abreu failed to convert for Botafogo to send the Tricolor into Sunday’s decider.
They will play their Group B opponents Vasco, who beat them in such controversial circumstances earlier in the tournament.
Vagner Love had given Fla the lead with a rocket of a striker in the opening exchanges before Felipe spilled Juninho’s long-range effort, allowing Alecsandro to equalize.
Flamengo striker Deivid then missed one of the easiest chances you are likely to see, somehow hitting the post from three yards with the goal at his mercy. Diego Souza made him regret his folly dearly, heading the winner in the second half.
Sunday’s final will be at the Engenhão, kicking off at 4PM. For those who want to go watch, this is a game that will likely require buying tickets ahead of time.
Read more (in Portuguese)
* The Rio Times Daily Update is a new feature we are offering to help keep you up-to-date with major news as it happens.