30.07.2023 19:00

The second Czech-Brazilian match of the tournament also brought positive news for domestic football. Slavia was  able to match Flamengo, they even overpowered them in certain moments. Unlike for Sparta, a 1-1 draw is enough for them to advance to the final, as they beat Al Ain by two goals.

Flamengo had the first chances in the last group match, but David Tomas, the goalkeeper of Slavia, showed his skills. Unfortunately, he couldn't cover two shots in a row - and Sholly sent the opposition into the lead.

After the break, Slavia made changes and gained the upper hand. Samuel Pikolon missed a clear header, then David Mikulanda hit the post. The pressure was building, the substitute Gustavo Luiz was sent off after two yellow cards in a row. Tomáš Jelínek scored a well-deserved equaliser with a wonderful shot, Jan Jinoch missed another great opportunity.

"We gained more dominance in midfield and that was decisive, but it was exhausting to face their quick counters. I told the boys that it is a moment of celebration for a Czech footballer to play against the Brazilians, once in a lifetime thing, and now they will play them twice in three days. We will see how the younger players can put everything together with their physical strength. The same opponent in the final as last year is a big challenge for us," Milan Titěra, head coach of Slavia, commented on the great success. Sparta players who remained in the audience applauded their efforts.


Credit photo: CEE CUP, Svatopluk Samler