CURITIBA, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- Midfielder Amaral struck a vital away goal to earn Flamengo a 1-1 draw in Wednesday's first leg of the Copa do Brasil final.

Amaral netted in the 30th minute with a powerful drive from outside the area, cancelling out Marcelo's long-range opener at the Durival stadium.

Flamengo need only a 0-0 draw or 1-0 victory at the Maracana stadium next Wednesday to lift their third Copa do Brasil trophy.

"Now we play them at home in front of 60,000 fans. It's going to be difficult to take this title away from us," Flamengo striker Hernane said after the match.

"I am hoping that things go our way and that I can score a goal in such an important match."