Flamengo Weighs Punishment for Pulgar After Red Card

RB Bragantino defeated Flamengo 3-0 on April 2, 2026, in Bragança Paulista, ending Flamengo’s six-match unbeaten run in the Brasileirão. The match was defined by a dominant performance from the home side and a critical red card issued to Flamengo midfielder Erick Pulgar.

The victory allowed RB Bragantino to climb from 16th to 11th place in the league standings. Flamengo struggled to create meaningful opportunities, managing only one shot on target from seven attempts throughout the encounter.

Match Summary and Key Events

RB Bragantino took control of the game early. In the 17th minute, Isidro Pitta scored from outside the penalty area following a pass from Juninho Capixaba.

The lead was doubled in the 39th minute when Gabriel struck a low shot from distance, which had been set up by Henry Mosquera after a corner kick.

The momentum shifted further in favor of the hosts shortly after the restart. In the 50th minute, Erick Pulgar was sent off after a VAR review. Five minutes later, in the 55th minute, Lucas Barbosa scored to make it 3-0, glancing in a cross from Agustín Sant’Anna.

Despite chasing a response, Flamengo was unable to break through the Bragantino defense. Bragantino goalkeeper Tiago Volpi made a smart save early in the match to deny Ayrton Lucas. RB Bragantino recorded 18 attempts with six on target and maintained 55.7% possession.

Roster Changes and Tactical Shifts

Flamengo entered the match with several key players rested, including Arrascaeta, Varela, and Léo Pereira. In an attempt to alter the game’s trajectory, the coaching staff introduced Éverton and Jorge Andrés Carrascal Guado as halftime substitutions.

Despite these changes, RB Bragantino remained in control of the match. A potential fourth goal by Henry Mosquera in the 73rd minute was ruled out following a VAR check.

Internal Discipline and Player Future

Following the defeat, the focus has shifted to the conduct of Erick Pulgar. According to reporting from O Globo, Flamengo is currently discussing a potential punishment for Pulgar, with the club considering the player’s disciplinary history in their deliberations.

This sentiment was echoed by analyst Mauro Cezar via UOL, who stated that the expulsion of Pulgar demands action from Flamengo.

Amidst the internal disciplinary discussions, Bolavip Brasil reports that Pulgar has made a decision regarding his future at the club. The player has expressed his interest in continuing with Flamengo, a stance that has reportedly left the club’s board of directors feeling reassured.

Upcoming Fixtures

RB Bragantino will look to build on this momentum in their next match as they visit Mirassol.

Flamengo will seek to recover from the loss and the loss of Pulgar’s availability as they prepare to host Santos.