Decisive figure runs the show as Fla control Vitória | OneFootball

Erick Pulgar struck in the 14th minute with a right-footed drive from outside the box, setting Flamengo on their way to a 2-0 win over Vitória. The opener tilted the game and let the hosts dictate the tempo.

The Chile midfielder started it with a clean contact from range, arrowing into the top left after Léo Pereira fed him from the left side. From there Pulgar kept Fla on the front foot, recycling play and switching angles to keep Vitória pinned back.

After the restart he continued to dictate, stepping into pockets to progress play and shutting down counters before they developed. His positioning meant Mengão regained the ball quickly and attacked again, denying Leão da Barra any rhythm.

Pulgar's numbers underlined the control: 94 passes with 86 completed, a team-high 28 successful passes in the final third, and nine recoveries. He also made two clearances and one interception, marrying security with bite when Nêgo tried to break.

Because Fla had 62.5% possession, his passing range and anticipation continually moved the block, stretching spaces that teammates exploited.

Fla remain second and visit Cruzeiro in the CONMEBOL Libertadores next, while Leão da Barra host Botafogo in the league.

How high would you rate Pulgar's performance tonight?