By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Atlético-MG and Flamengo drew 1-1 in a dramatic game to bring the 33rd round of the 2012 Brasileirão to a close. The result left Flamengo’s arch-rivals Fluminense one step closer to lifting the title, who now have an eight point advantage over Atlético with just five rounds remaining.
There was only frustration for Atlético, who had one more player for over half the match following the dismissal of Wellington Silva. Ronaldinho showed glimpses of brilliance but was marked effectively and couldn’t provide for spearhead Jô.
Renato Abreu gave Fla the lead with a fine long-range drive on 27 minutes and the Rubro-Negro looked good for their lead. But with one man less they found it difficult to compress their hosts and Leonardo leveled after the interval.
As the second half progressed the home fans became agitated as Flamengo’s defense stood firm. Ronaldinho had the chance to avenge his former employers at the death, but sent his free-kick whistling over the top. With the match ending a stalemate, last night’s real winners were Fluminense.
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