MATCH REPORT - The Cup Emptieth

BOTAFOGO 2 GAMA 3 - Copa do Brasil

How Fogo managed to throw this one away would be beyond most people. Having already stuck four past Gama in the federal capital, Fogo proceeded to commit the footballing equivalent of a capital offence by leaking three at home. That, after bright-eyed and bushy-tailed Alex Alves put Fogo a goal to the good.

But then three goals for the visitors as Gama's strikers frolicked freely through the non-existent back four. How about some signings for that sector since it can't stop shipping goals? And whatever happened to Jefferson who some of us spoke so loosely about that it appeared the spiritual heir of Gordon Banks was, miracle of miracles, parked betwixt the sticks for Fogo.

It looked as though the Fogo team had forgotten the script - ie the Copa do Brasil had become the priority with the team sloping out of the carioca - and what's more it promised the best chance of Libertadores qualification.

To sadden the loyal band of alvinegros who still kept faith in the powers of Glorioso recovery not even the third Fogo 'goal' was allowed - the eagle-eyed flagman pointed out correctly to the ref that Alex Alves had touched the ball for a second time as his penalty ricocheted from the cross bar - so even though Ruy tucked it away the man in whatever-colour-he-was-wearing was correct for once - and all the effing and blinding in English and Portuguese in the arquibancada was to no avail.

Another Cup run that never was. It made me recall countless FA Cup third rounds with West Ham....different locations maybe but same result - elimination. But a great night out (especially for Gama), so keep the faith foguenses.