Serna scores as Fluminense beat Vasco, need draw for Carioca final | OneFootball

Fluminense defeated Vasco, 1-0, on Sunday night (22), in the first leg of the Carioca Championship semifinal at Nilton Santos. With the positive result, the Tricolor has the advantage of a draw in the return match, which takes place next Sunday (1st), at 6 p.m., at Maracanã.

The beginning of the first half was marked by a lot of physical intensity. Even with few chances created, both teams committed a large number of fouls and some cards were handed out. On the Warriors' side, Facundo Bernal, Freytes, and Lucho Acosta were booked. Meanwhile, coach Luis Zubeldía received a red card for complaining to the referees. However, both clubs returned from the technical break with a strong offensive stance. After a corner kick, Kevin Serna received an assist from the Uruguayan midfielder and opened the scoring for Flu at 31 minutes. The rival had a good opportunity with a shot from outside the area by Robert Rojas, saved by Fábio. In injury time, Bernal finished alone in the opponent's area, stopped by goalkeeper Léo Jardim.

In the second half, Fluminense started controlling most of the actions. In the early plays, John Kennedy received a great pass from Martinelli and ended up shooting wide. However, Bernal was sent off the field for committing a hard foul on Adson, after a Vasco counterattack, at 18 minutes. Even with one player down, the Tricolor held off the pressure from Cruzmaltino at the end of the match, with great performance from the defensive system. Despite the victory, the Warriors left the duel with a concern: midfielder Nonato left the field limping.

Now, Flu turns all its attention to the Brazilian Championship. Next Wednesday (25), the Tricolor faces Palmeiras, for the fourth round of the tournament, at 9:30 p.m., at Arena Barueri, in São Paulo.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.