Flamengo beats Vasco 4-1, extends Brazilian league lead over Palmeiras

Flamengo defeated Vasco 4-1 at Nilton Santos Stadium on Thursday in the 33rd round of the Brazilian Championship. Pedro scored twice, ending a seven-match goal drought that dated back to September 20 against Bragantino. Samuel Lino also scored twice, while Lescano netted the consolation goal for Vasco.

The victory lifted Flamengo to 73 points, three clear of second-place Palmeiras, which has 70. Vasco remained in 13th place with 38 points, four above Grêmio, the first team in the relegation zone in 17th.

“If we compare this game with Flamengo versus Atlético-MG, we have much more balanced numbers. It is not an alternative team.”

Vasco coach Pedro Emanuel fielded a rotated side, resting Paulo Henrique, Saldivia, Robert Renan, Sosa, Andrés Gómez and Bruno Duarte ahead of Sunday's Copa do Brasil semifinal first leg against Palmeiras at Nubank Parque. Gabriel Pereira and Lucas Freitas started together in central defense for the first time, while Jair returned to the starting lineup as a holding midfielder.

Pedro Emanuel defended his selection, saying he chose players he felt were most prepared to be competitive and that the team needed freshness after 60 matches. He admitted Vasco did not start well and conceded early, but said they were competitive for most of the match. He described the 4-1 scoreline as disproportionate and said a one-goal margin would have been fairer.

Vasco will face Grêmio on Wednesday in the 34th round of the Brasileirão, followed by the Athletico-PR away fixture. Flamengo will visit Palmeiras on Sunday for the first leg of the Copa do Brasil semifinals.