Lucas Paqueta's highly anticipated second debut for Flamengo turned into a nightmare on Sunday night, as the Brazilian midfielder missed a golden opportunity in stoppage time during the Brazilian Super Cup final against Corinthians.
A Costly Return to Boyhood Club
The 28-year-old, who completed a £36 million move from West Ham United just days before the final, came on as a substitute for his boyhood club in what was meant to be a triumphant homecoming. Instead, he found himself at the centre of a devastating moment that sealed Flamengo's fate in the prestigious season-opening competition.
Dramatic Final Moments
With Flamengo trailing 2-0 and time running out, Paqueta was presented with a glorious chance from close range to pull a goal back and potentially change the momentum of the match. However, the Brazilian international blazed his effort over the crossbar, leaving Flamengo fans and manager Filipe Luis, the former Chelsea defender, visibly distraught on the sidelines.
Corinthians had established their lead through goals from former Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista in the 26th minute and Yuri Alberto, securing their victory in the annual clash between the Brazilian league and cup winners.
Post-Match Reflections
After the match, an emotional Paqueta admitted his disappointment, stating: 'I'm very sad. First, because of the chance I could have had to put Flamengo back in contention, and I ended up failing. Honestly, I can't miss a goal like that. I understand my responsibility.'
The midfielder added: 'I did what I could to be in this final. It's just the beginning, and what I can promise is to work hard and find my best physical level again.'
Looking Ahead to More Silverware
Paqueta immediately turned his attention to Flamengo's upcoming CONMEBOL Recopa final against Argentine club Lanus, which will determine the best team across South America's premier club competitions. 'There's still a final this month, and I intend to help Flamengo win that title,' he declared, showing determination to make amends for his Super Cup disappointment.
Challenging Circumstances
Flamengo's task was made significantly more difficult when Jorge Carrascal received a red card at half-time for elbowing Breno Bidon, leaving the team to play the entire second half with ten men. Despite this disadvantage, Paqueta praised his new teammates: 'I think the team played a great game, despite having a player sent off. We went after it and chased our chances even with one less player.'
'In the end, we really had the opportunity. I'm proud to be part of this team. They've achieved everything they've achieved, they're high-level players, and I hope I can give my best,' he concluded.
Background to the Transfer
Paqueta's move to Flamengo came after what he described as growing disillusionment with life in England, despite West Ham initially discussing the possibility of him staying on loan for the remainder of the season. The Brazilian's desire to leave followed his clearance from spot-fixing charges by an independent disciplinary commission last summer.
Those Football Association charges, brought in August 2023, had previously scuppered a potential transfer to Manchester City, keeping Paqueta at the London Stadium while investigations were ongoing. His eventual departure marks the end of a turbulent period in his career, with West Ham having since signed Adama Traore from Fulham as a replacement.
The dramatic debut miss represents a challenging start to Paqueta's Flamengo return, but the midfielder appears determined to use the experience as motivation for future success with his childhood club.
