Arrascaeta and De la Cruz star as Flamengo seize Carioca semi-final advantage | OneFootball

Flamengo beat Madureira to seize a Carioca semi-final advantage. Globo.com’s ratings named Arrascaeta and De la Cruz as the standouts.

Filipe Luís picked a mixed XI and the team laboured before the break. Carrascal snatched at chances and was withdrawn at half-time, with Everton also taken off after failing to make an impact. Emerson Royal was one of the few bright sparks, even attempting a bicycle kick.

De la Cruz struck with a first-time finish seven minutes into the second half, then was substituted soon after. Arrascaeta came on at the interval, fashioned a chance on eight minutes and later converted from the spot after Samuel Lino won a penalty.

Andrew kept focus with saves at nine and 18 minutes as Madureira threatened sporadically. Arrascaeta also drew a fine chance on 22 minutes.

Lucas Paquetá entered on 12 minutes and recovered the ball in the move that led to the third. Luiz Araújo replaced Plata on 24 minutes and struck on 40, finishing from Lino’s assist.

Pedro had several efforts but could not score. Ayrton Lucas was wasteful with crosses, while Vitão and Danilo had mixed moments at the back. Andrew impressed overall and Royal drove much of Flamengo’s play, leaving the side with the advantage in the tie.

Source: Globo.com