Flamengo grabbed a first victory of the 2012 Copa Libertadores group stage with a 1-0 defeat of Emelec at the Engenhão on Thursday night.
Struggling with the loss of three crucial midfielders, Flamengo adapted to play a 3-5-2 formation, but the unfamiliarity led to an unconvincing performance.
The Rubro-Negro‘s task was helped in no small part by the dismissal of Emelec striker Marlon de Jesus just before half-time. The Ecuadorian departed for an elbow on Flamengo defender Welinton, which also saw the Brazilian unable to continue in the second period.
After the break Flamengo were ahead within minutes as Vagner Love combined with Ronaldinho to continue his remarkable run of scoring, his fifth goal in his six games since returning to Brazil.
With a man advantage, there was to be no catching Flamengo in the second-half, despite the Carioca side wasting further chances to extend their lead.
FLAMENGO: Paulo Vítor; Welinton (Deivid 46′), Marco González, David Braz; Léo Moura (Negueba 27′), Muralha, Luiz Antônio, Bottinelli, Júnior César; Ronaldinho, Vágner Love. Coach: Joel Santana.
EMELEC: Estaban Dreer; José Luis Quiñonéz (Carlos Quiñonez 41′), Achilier, Baguí; Valencia, Mondaini (Walter Iza 46′), Pedro Quiñonez, Giménez, Gaibor; Marlon de Jesús, Figueroa (Vigneri 60′). Coach: Marcelo Freitas.
