Flamengo Welcomes Back to Maracanã: Introducing the Exciting ‘New 10’

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, Flamengo took the field at Maracanã for their first match of the year and secured a solid 2-0 victory against Sampaio Corrêa. This game marked the end of the sixth round of the Carioca Championship.

Flamengo started strong, even though they rested some key players. From the opening whistle, they played with intensity and created several scoring chances. Alcaraz almost found the net twice in the first half, with attempts in the 22nd and 27th minutes, followed by João Victor’s near miss in the 28th minute.

The goals finally came in the second half, despite a dip in energy. Matheus Gonçalves had an early goal ruled out, but Wallace Yan changed the scoreboard at the 30-minute mark with a powerful header off a corner kick. Alcaraz then scored in the 42nd minute, capitalizing on a cross from the left, ensuring Flamengo’s victory.

Not only was it a memorable night for the team, but there were also some special moments for fans. Danilo, the new right-back/centre-back, proudly wore the number 13 shirt, sharing his excitement about joining the club. Meanwhile, Arrascaeta received the iconic number 10 jersey with Zico’s blessings, a significant honor within Flamengo’s storied history.

The match did have its tense moments. In the second half, Varela and Lucas Marreta collided heads. Both players were substituted, but Varela was not immediately put through the concussion protocol.

With this win, Flamengo achieved their third straight victory, bringing their point total to 10 and placing them fourth in the standings. They now sit alongside Volta Redonda, Vasco, and Maricá in the G-4, while Sampaio Corrêa remains near the bottom with just one point.

Flamengo is set to play again on Sunday, February 2, when they face Botafogo at the Estádio Mangueirão in Belém, Pará, for the Supercopa do Brasil.

Featured Photo: Gilvan de Souza/Divulgação X Flamengo