Bahia and coach Rogério Ceni have plenty to celebrate after a historic 1-0 victory over Flamengo on Sunday night (5) at the Casa de Apostas Arena Fonte Nova. Willian José’s decisive goal not only secured three points for the Tricolor but also ended lengthy droughts for both the team and their manager.
This marked Bahia’s first win against Flamengo after 12 consecutive defeats, while Ceni finally tasted victory over the Rio de Janeiro giants as a coach, ending a 16-match losing streak.
Early Setback: Danilo Sent Off
The match took a dramatic turn in the 13th minute when Danilo received a straight red card following a tackle on Tiago. The early sending-off forced Flamengo to reorganize their defensive line, with Filipe Luís substituting Pedro to adjust the team shape.
Flamengo had the first major opportunity when Arrascaeta set up Samuel Lino, but the striker’s effort was expertly denied by Bahia goalkeeper Ronaldo.
Tricolor Takes Control
Despite being a man down, Bahia gradually took control of the game. Their persistence paid off just before halftime when Jean Lucas won a key tackle in midfield, setting up Willian José to score in the 44th minute, giving the home side a crucial lead.
Second Half Drama: Disallowed Goal and Another Red Card
Flamengo made three substitutions at halftime, aiming to inject pace and creativity, but the expected offensive surge never materialized. Bahia even saw Michel Araújo find the net, only for the goal to be ruled offside.
The drama intensified when Wallace Yan picked up two yellow cards within 11 minutes, leaving Flamengo with just nine men. Even reduced, they threatened late in the game when Léo Ortiz came close to equalizing in the 43rd minute, but Bahia’s defense held firm.
Historic Victory and Its Implications
The final whistle sparked celebrations from Bahia, as the club achieved a milestone victory and Ceni secured a personal triumph as a coach against Flamengo. With 43 points, Bahia climbed to fifth place in the Brasileirão standings, while Flamengo remains at 55 points but now sits behind Palmeiras, who have a game in hand and more victories (17 vs. 16).
Upcoming Fixtures
Both teams will regroup after the FIFA international break. Bahia will visit Vitória at Barradão on Thursday, October 16, while Flamengo will travel to face Botafogo at Nilton Santos Stadium a day earlier.
