RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Tens of thousands of ecstatic soccer fans are celebrating their Flamengo team’s victory in South America’s top club competition, pouring into the streets of Rio de Janeiro in a flood of red and black jerseys.
Supporters were waving flags and setting off fireworks as the Copa Libertadores winners rode through the streets in an open-topped bus.
The team’s victory Saturday over Argentine side River Plate has lifted the spirits of Brazilians after a period of economic stagnation and political infighting. That’s especially true in Rio, where Flamengo is widely considered the most popular club.