🇧🇷 Arturo Vidal nets winner as Flamengo account for Botafogo | OneFootball

Arturo Vidal’s second goal in Flamengo colours helped his side eke out a victory against Rio de Janeiro neighbours Botafogo on Sunday.

Scorer: Vidal 58′

Needing a win to close the gap on Brasileirão leaders Palmeiras, the visitors were guilty of underperforming in a disappointing first half at the Estádio Nilton Santos.

Flamengo managed just one shot in the entire opening 45 minutes, and failed to trouble Botafogo goalkeeper Gatito Fernández with even one shot on target.

It took almost an hour for the Rubro-Negro to break the deadlock, with veteran midfielder Vidal arriving late in the box to finish from close range after an excellent knock down from freshly introduced substitute Pedro.

The Chile international’s goal proved the decisive moment, as the Mengão got back to winning ways in the league after last weekend’s draw at Palmeiras.

Flamengo have now cut the deficit to the Verdão to seven points, while Botafogo lie just two points above the relegation zone.