Flamengo's youth academy has demonstrated its strength in 2015. In addition to major titles, such as the U-20 Guanabara Cup, the club has consistently competed in finals in various categories—from U-15 to U-20. We've also seen increasing integration of youth academy players into the professional squad, as is the case with full-back Jorge.

This Sunday, the oldest squad before the professional team plays the U-20 Rio Cup final against Botafogo. Despite playing two competitions simultaneously—the Rio Cup and the Brasileirão—Zé Ricardo's team hasn't prioritized one over the other. They're fighting for the top spot in both. After four straight wins over Vasco—two in each competition—it's now time to play the Rio Cup final. Having won the Guanabara Cup, a victory over Botafogo in a combination of results would mean Flamengo securing the Rio title early.

Carlos Noval, executive director of youth football, spoke about the positive momentum the U-20 team is experiencing. He highlighted both the work of the coaching staff and the athletes. "Despite playing two important competitions simultaneously, the team demonstrated its strength in both tournaments by reaching the final of the Rio Cup—even after already winning the Guanabara Cup—and is fiercely competing with Fluminense for a spot in the U-20 Brazilian Championship final. This strong performance is due both to the excellent work of the coaching staff, led by coach Zé Ricardo and technical coordinator Léo Inácio, and to the quality and commitment of our athletes. Furthermore, the support of the professional football department, especially Executive Director Rodrigo Caetano and Football Manager Gabriel Skinner, has been crucial," he stated.

The manager also spoke specifically about the first match of the final, which takes place this Sunday (09.08), in Gávea. "Keeping this line of work, we will be strong and focused for the first match of the Taça Rio final against Botafogo. We hope to count on the support of our fans, so that together we can achieve another victory and give more joy to the immense Nação Rubro Negra", he called.

The match kicks off at 11 a.m. at Gávea Stadium. Admission is free for club members. The return leg is next Sunday (August 16.08) at Engenhão Stadium.