Flamengo Clinches Final Berth With Dominant Win Over Botafogo

Following an opening-round victory in the Rio de Janeiro State Basketball Championship, Flamengo secured its place in the final on Wednesday with an impressive away performance. Playing in General Severiano, the Rubro-Negro defeated Botafogo 97-77 to book their championship decider. Yago was the standout performer in the classic matchup, finishing with 20 points.

Flamengo will now await their opponent in the final, which will be determined by the Botafogo-Fluminense clash.

Key Performers

Yago – 20 points
Ruan – 19 points
Didi – 16 points

Match Recap

Flamengo came out strong with DG scoring the opening bucket. Didi quickly followed with the team's first three-pointer from the corner. Botafogo soon took the lead as the quarter remained closely contested. In the final two minutes, however, the home side found their rhythm from the field, extending their advantage to close the opening quarter ahead 31-13.

In the second quarter, Flamengo returned with improved defensive intensity and more efficient scoring, chipping away at the deficit built by Botafogo in the opening frame. The Rubro-Negro's three-point shooting began to click, keeping the contest highly competitive. The momentum swing was momentarily halted in the final minutes when Botafogo responded with scoring of their own, heading into halftime with a 53-46 lead.

Flamengo emerged from the break with renewed energy and quickly drew level. A perfectly timed three-pointer from Yago put the visitors back in front after spending much of the first half trailing. As minutes progressed, the Rubro-Negro gained confidence and began to showcase their technical quality on court. With an impressive comeback effort, Flamengo took the third quarter 75-63.

In the final quarter, with momentum in their favor, Flamengo maintained their offensive efficiency and prevented Botafogo from mounting any serious challenge. Yago continued to shine, converting two additional three-pointers. In a slick team play, DG found Yago, who fed Ruan for the finishing touch on a fast-break score.

In the closing moments, Flamengo maintained their rhythm and sealed the 97-77 victory, securing their spot in the State Championship final.

Starting Lineup

Yago, Didi, Negrete, DG, and Ruan.
Coach: Demétrius Ferracciú.

Up Next

Flamengo returns to action next Monday (28th) at 8:30 p.m. for a preseason friendly against Peñarol in Uruguay.