Flamengo beats Nova Iguaçu and opens up an advantage in the title hunt

The first game of the Rio championship final between Nova Iguaçu and Flamengo took place this Saturday (30). The dispute took place at the Maracanã stadium, with more than 40 thousand fans present. The Flamengo team took a 3-0 lead into the return game against Nova Iguaçu.

_{Flamengo and Nova Iguaçu players with arbitration (Photo: reproduction/Rafael Arantes/Instagram/@maracana)}

Pressure in the first half

In the first half of the decision, it started with pressure from Flamengo, even without the pressure to mark the ball. The Rubro-Negro team had great chances of goals in the first half, the first goal came after the referee awarded a penalty for Flamengo, against Ayrton Lucas, with a penalty from Pedro. Nova Iguaçu had dangerous shots from outside the area, which contributed to two good saves by goalkeeper Rossi.

In stoppage time, Pedro scored his second goal, but it was disallowed by VAR, the Flamengo striker was offside. First half ended with 1-0 for the Rubro-Negro club.

_{Best moments of the Nova Iguaçu x Flamengo game (Video: reproduction/Youtube/ GE)}

Flamengo's advantage

Flamengo dominated the second half of the game, leaving Nova Iguaçu without space for great scoring chances. Rubro-Negro secured two more goals in the second half, with the second goal scored by the championship's top scorer, Pedro. The Flamengo striker even participated in the third goal, when he tried to throw a hat at Ronald, who, in an attempt to cut the play, covered goalkeeper Fabricio, and scored an own goal.

Flamengo opened a big lead for the second game of the Rio championship. The Rubro-Negro club can lose by up to two goals and still win the Rio de Janeiro championship cup. The return game is scheduled for April 7th, at Maracanã, at 5pm.

Featured Photo: Bruno H and Pedro celebrating the third goal (Reproduction/Rafael Arantes/Instagram/@maracana)