One player ignites Athletico Paranaense in draw with Fla | OneFootball

Stiven Mendoza lashed in the opener in the 11th minute, setting Athletico Paranaense on course for a 1-1 draw with Flamengo.

The Colombian struck early, racing onto a headed lay-off from Gaston Americo Benavidez and driving a right-footed finish into the top right corner from the right side of the box. He then led a swift break to tee up Kevin Viveros for a chance that flew wide (21.).

After the restart he steered a left-footed effort wide from inside the area (46.). Moments later, he forced Fla goalkeeper Agustín Rossi into a low save with another right-side burst (48.).

Mendoza's output underlined his influence: four attempts with two on target, six touches in the box and two key passes. His direct running repeatedly pulled Athletico-PR up the pitch and kept the visitors' back line retreating.

Because Furacão found him early in the right channel and combined through Benavidez's overlaps, Mendoza attacked space before the defence could reset, carrying the hosts' threat for long spells.

Furacão remain fifth and visit Remo next. Mengão are second and host Palmeiras next.