Flamengo Outclass Bragantino with Second-Half Flurry at Maracanã

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — Flamengo delivered a masterclass at the iconic Maracanã on Saturday, overwhelming Red Bull Bragantino with three second-half goals to secure a convincing 3-0 victory. The home side's patient approach paid dividends as they broke down their opponents after the interval, much to the delight of their passionate supporters.

After a goalless first half where Eduardo Sasha picked up a yellow card for Bragantino, Flamengo emerged from the break with renewed purpose. The deadlock was broken in the 50th minute when Giorgian de Arrascaeta finished with a left-footed shot from the center of the box to the bottom right corner. The Uruguayan playmaker was perfectly positioned to convert after receiving a well-timed pass from Jorginho.

The hosts doubled their advantage in the 64th minute through Jorginho, who turned from provider to scorer with a clinical finish. The goal energized the Maracanã crowd further, with Flamengo now firmly in control of proceedings. Bragantino's frustration showed when Gustavo Marques received a yellow card just three minutes later as they struggled to contain Flamengo's attacking momentum.

Bruno Henrique put the result beyond doubt in the 72nd minute, completing Flamengo's impressive scoring spree. The forward struck with a right-footed shot from the center of the box to the bottom left corner after de Arrascaeta returned the favor with an incisive through ball. The goal showcased the chemistry between Flamengo's attacking talents and capped a dominant second-half display.

The closing stages saw a flurry of substitutions as Flamengo managed their lead, with Samuel Lino replacing Everton in the 74th minute, followed by Wallace Yan coming on for the influential de Arrascaeta three minutes later. Bragantino's attempts to salvage pride were repeatedly thwarted by a resolute Flamengo defense, despite some late pressure that resulted in yellow cards for Guillermo Varela and Bruno Henrique.

The victory reinforces Flamengo's credentials as one of Brazil's premier sides, showcasing their ability to break down organized opposition with patience and quality. For Bragantino, the defeat highlights the challenging task of competing at the Maracanã against a team brimming with attacking talent. The three-goal margin reflected Flamengo's superiority on a night when their second-half performance thrilled the Rio faithful.