Flamengo Triumphs Over Botafogo 2-1 to Advance in Campeonato Carioca

Flamengo secured a 2-1 victory against Botafogo in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Campeonato Carioca, held at Estádio Nilton Santos on Carnival Sunday, advancing to the semi-finals where they will face Madureira. Lucas Paquetá, who recently returned to Flamengo, opened the scoring in the first half with a precise left-footed shot following a counterattack initiated by a defensive error from Botafogo. Botafogo managed to level the score in the second half through Alexander Barboza, who converted a corner kick. However, Flamengo reclaimed control as Erick Pulgar scored the decisive goal late in the match after capitalizing on a rebound from a corner kick. This goal came following critical mistakes by Botafogo's goalkeeper Neto, who had failed to securely handle the ball earlier, contributing to Flamengo's scoring opportunities.

This victory marks Flamengo's third win in eight days, including recent dominant performances over Sampaio Corrêa (7-1) and Vitória (2-1). It also extends Flamengo’s dominance over Botafogo, with ten wins in their last eleven encounters and four consecutive matches without defeat against them. Flamengo's win boosts their confidence ahead of their upcoming Recopa Sul-Americana match against Lanús.

Conversely, Botafogo is grappling with mounting pressure after suffering their fifth consecutive loss across competitions, including all four Carioca classics this season. Their recent struggle has raised concerns within the club as they prepare to shift focus to international challenges such as their Copa Libertadores match against Nacional de Potosí on February 18. Despite some brief resurgence during the game, Botafogo ultimately underperformed and will redirect its efforts to upcoming tournaments.

Overall, Flamengo's solid performance, marked by key contributions from Paquetá and Pulgar, coupled with Botafogo's costly errors, defined the outcome. The match, characterized by individual mistakes and intense rivalry, sets the stage for Flamengo’s continued campaign in both local and international competitions.