Fluminense Takes Advantage in Copa do Brasil Feminina Quarter-finals with 2-1 Win over Flamengo

In the first leg of the 2026 Copa do Brasil Feminina quarter-finals held on October 15 at Estádio Luso Brasileiro, Fluminense defeated Flamengo 2-1 in a competitive match that featured critical moments of resilience and controversy. Fluminense took the lead just before halftime with a goal by Nath Rodrigues, assisted by Raquel Fernandes. Despite Flamengo's goalkeeper Vivi Holzel making key saves to keep her team in the match, Fluminense went ahead again in the second half with a goal from Driely, set up by Lelê. Flamengo's Laysa replied quickly with an equalizer at the 54th minute, after a precise pass from Fabi Simões, but Flamengo found it difficult to break through thereafter.

The game saw contentious officiating decisions that affected both sides. Early in the first half, Lelê had a goal disallowed for offside, and later, Flamengo’s Cristiane saw a goal ruled offside in the second half. Adding to Flamengo's challenges, midfielder Mariana was sent off with a second yellow card in the 84th minute, leaving the team with only ten players for the final minutes.

Fluminense now holds a valuable advantage going into the second leg on October 22. They must only avoid defeat to advance to the semifinals, while Flamengo faces the daunting task of needing to win by two goals or by one goal to push the match into penalties. The winner will face the victor of the Red Bull Bragantino vs Ferroviária tie. Notably, the Copa do Brasil Feminina champion will qualify for the 2027 Supercopa do Brasil against São Paulo, rather than the Libertadores tournament.

This outcome sets up a decisive return leg where Flamengo must seek an aggressive victory to keep hopes alive, while Fluminense looks to defend its lead and progress further in the competition.