Without top scorer Diego Maurício, Flamengo's youth team faces a difficult task this Saturday (27.03). Without not only striker but also midfielder Luiz Antônio and defender Christianno, the red-and-blacks face Botafogo, away from home, at 15:30 pm in Caio Martins. The match is valid for the 12th round of the Campeonato Carioca U-20 and is considered crucial by the players and the coaching staff.

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After all, Botafogo is a direct rival in the fight for the Guanabara Cup title. Flamengo has 26 points and leads the competition, alongside Fluminense. Vasco, with 25, is also in the running, closely followed by the black and whites, with 23. The team from General Severiano is coming off a stumble in the last round, so the red and blacks expect a very tough match.

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"They lost the last game, so they'll want to come out and give it everything. We have to stay calm, play intelligently, and not miss any scoring opportunities," analyzed right-back Galhardo.

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While Flamengo is missing players, the team is expected to have reinforcements. Defensive midfielder João Vitor and midfielder Saba return to the lineup after missing the derby against Vasco. Henrique is expected to replace Christianno, and up front, Dudu, one of the team's standout players in the Copa São Paulo, replaces Diego Maurício.

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"Of course, Diego is a player we miss. He's a role model, he's in great form, but we have Dudu and we'll count on him to get this victory," said coach Armênio Moura.

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The Gávea team should enter the field with Marcelo Carné, Galhardo, Henrique, Marlon and Jorbison; João Vitor, Maicon, Saba and Guilherme (Dieguinho); Dieguinho (Paquetá) and Dudu.