Flamengo moved three points clear at the top of the Brazilian Championship with a 4-1 win over Vasco on Thursday at Nilton Santos. The result, combined with Palmeiras’ 0-0 draw against Santos on Wednesday, leaves Flamengo on 73 points and Palmeiras on 70 with five rounds to play.
Pedro scored twice to put Flamengo ahead, first heading in a cross from Varela in the ninth minute and then converting a rebound before half-time. Lescano had briefly equalised for Vasco five minutes after the opening goal, finishing a pass from Brenner. Samuel Lino added Flamengo’s third eight minutes into the second half and completed the scoring in the 39th minute.
Vasco coach Pedro Emanuel made five changes to his usual lineup, with the team focused on its upcoming match against Palmeiras. Vasco remain 13th with 38 points.
Flamengo’s remaining fixtures are at home against Grêmio and Athletico, away to Palmeiras and Coritiba, and at home against Chapecoense. Palmeiras will face Remo at home, Cruzeiro away, Flamengo at home, Chapecoense away and Coritiba at home.
Palmeiras also have commitments in the Copa do Brasil semi-finals and the Libertadores final. Their first-leg cup tie against Vasco is scheduled for Sunday in São Paulo.
Sources: Folha Esporte.