After beating Grêmio 3-0 in the last group stage match, the red-black under-15 team secured qualification for the semifinals of the Brazilian Children's Football Cup on Tuesday night (20.01). In a thrilling match, the "Mais Querido" defeated São Paulo, the current two-time champion of the tournament, in a penalty shootout where the red-black goalkeeper Victor Hugo was the standout.

After falling behind early in the match, the Flamengo boys went in search of an equalizer and succeeded, following a beautiful one-two between Athirson and Vinícius. The ball reached Ferrari, who had just come on, and the youngster finished, leveling the score. With the score at 1-1, the match went to penalties, where the Flamengo boys excelled. Athirson, Leandro, Henrique, and Bernardo converted their shots. Under the post, the Flamengo goalkeeper secured the victory. Victor Hugo saved two shots from the São Paulo team, securing qualification.

After the match, coach Dudu Patetuci commented on his players' performance. "It was already a difficult game due to the decisive nature of the match. The fact that we had the fans against us (the championship takes place in Votorantim, in the interior of São Paulo) and, unfortunately, conceded a goal three minutes into the match, made things even more complicated. But after 15 minutes, we regained our emotional balance and tied the game. In a very competitive and tight second half, the match was very open. We went to a penalty shootout, where we converted all of them, and our goalkeeper saved two. We showed that we are maturing and on the right track. We will certainly fight hard for victory in the semifinals," he assured.

In the next round, the Mais Querido will face the winner of the derby between Palmeiras and Corinthians. The match takes place on Friday and secures a spot in the tournament final. You can be part of the red-and-black youth team's victories by becoming a member. Click here and join the Nação Rubro-Negra now.