Atlético Mineiro’s title chances were dealt a blow last night when they were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Flamengo.
Flamengo took the lead in the 28th minute through Renato Abreu, who smashed a left-footed shot into the bottom corner of the goal.
However, the visitors were down to ten men following the dismissal of Wellington Silva two minutes before the interval.
Leonardo equalised for the home team early in the second half, when he leapt high at the back post to head in Bernard’s cross, but Mineiro were also a player down seven minutes later when Carlos Cesar saw red.
Atlético dominated but were unable to find a winning goal, as they were left to rue a series of missed chances.
The result could have been different as Ronaldinho had a strong penalty claim against his former club and hit a free-kick that cannoned off the post with three minutes remaining.
Atlético are now eight points adrift of Brasileirão leaders Fluminense, with just five games to go, whilst Flamengo remain in 14th.
Atlético Mineiro: Victor, Marcos Rocha (Neto Berola), Leonardo Silva, Réver, Richarlyson; Pierre (Serginho), Leandro Donizete, Guilherme (Leonardo), Bernard, Ronaldinho; Jô. Coach: Cuca
Flamengo: Felipe (Paulo Victor), Wellington Silva, Renato Santos, González, Ramon; Amaral, Ibson, Renato, Cleber Santana (Wellington Bruno); Liedson (Welinton), Vagner Love. Coach: Dorival Júnior
