Diego Ribas explains why Gabigol didn't take Flamengo's vital penalty | OneFootball

Flamengo’s dreams of retaining the Supercopa do Brazil ended in dramatic fashion as Vitinho missed the final penalty in their shootout against Atlético Mineiro.

Scorers: Ignacio Fernández 42′, Hulk 75′; Gabriel Barbosa 56′, Henrique 64′

Flamengo’s clash with Atlético Mineiro couldn’t be decided in regular time. Both team’s had led throughout the encounter with the Rubro-Negro coming from a goal down to lead 2-1 curtesy of goals by Gabriel Barbosa (known as Gabigol) and Bruno Henrique.

Their joy was short-lived, however, as Hulk’s clinical finish brought the two sides level once again.

The ensuing penalty shoot-out required all 11 players to step up, as no one could find a way to capitalise on their opponents misses.

With 22 players having tried their luck, both teams got to decide who takes their twelfth kick and, to the surprise of many, Vitinho stepped up for Flamengo instead of star striker Gabigol – he missed, handing Atlético Mineiro an 8-7 victory.

Speaking after the game, club captain Diego Ribas explained that it was a group decision to hand the vital kick to Vitinho.

“We trust the players, everyone,” said Diego.

“We spoke about who wanted to go for this kick-off and it was decided that Vitor would step up and take it.

“I congratulate his courage, because it’s not easy and having to step up and take that kind of responsibility. Taking one penalty in a shoot-out is difficult, just imagine two.”

The Mengão will have to pick themselves back up quickly after this defeat as they return to action on Wednesday when they travel to sixth-placed Botafogo.