The Brazilian Women’s Superliga Feminina saw its first showdown between the last two unbeaten teams, and SESC RJ Flamengo emerged victorious. 

Backed by a roaring crowd at the Maracanãzinho, the Rio side battled past Gerdau Minas 3–2 (20–25, 28–26, 15–25, 25–18, 15–8) in the eighth round of the season.

The win keeps Flamengo perfect with seven victories and 20 points, just one behind Minas, who remain top with 21 but have played one more match.

Returning from injury, American outside hitter Simone Lee starred with 25 points and collected her third MVP award of the campaign. She was supported by Tainara Santos (17) and Lorena Viezel (12), as Flamengo showed depth and resilience after dropping their first sets of the season.

Minas fought hard, led by Maria Khaletskaya (20 kills) and Hilary Johnson (15), but admitted errors proved costly. Middle blocker Júlia Kudiess acknowledged the team’s lapses, stressing the need for greater consistency as the season unfolds.

Photos: Flamengo