Flamengo's U-15 team, the greatest finalist in the history of the Friendship Cup, played its eighth title decision in the competition this Saturday morning (02) against Grêmio, and very nearly became the tournament's greatest champion (the Garotos do Ninho were seeking their fifth title). In a very well-played game at the Zico Football Center (CFZ), the Rubro-Negro was better for most of the national classic, wasted good scoring chances and tied with the Tricolor Gaúcho 0-0. In extra time, played in the Silver Goal system, Grêmio scored in the first half, and with the score at 1-0 at halftime, it was crowned champion of the tournament for the first time in its history. Midfielder Reinier, number 10 of the Mais Querido and one of the great highlights of the competition, was the top scorer of the Friendship Cup, with six goals.

The Garotos do Ninho were much better throughout the first half, putting enormous pressure on their opponents. The Red-Blacks created good scoring chances in the 5th, 8th, 9th, and 19th minutes, but goalkeeper Gabriel demonstrated composure and confidence on every ball that went toward goal. A highlight was the private duel between Lázaro and the goalkeeper. There were two attempts on goal from midfield, both unsuccessful. In the 27th minute, Grêmio almost opened the scoring with a quick counterattack. Wesley was one-on-one with Bruno, but shot wide. 

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The second half was much more evenly balanced, and the game was tense and exciting until the final whistle. In the 9th minute, Grêmio headed the ball against the post. In the 22nd minute, Reinier controlled the ball, turned, and struck a powerful shot from the edge of the box. The ball deflected off the defense and went millimeters wide of Gabriel's right post, who simply watched and cheered. In the 31st minute, in Flamengo's last chance of regulation time, Dedé controlled it with style and shot dangerously from the edge of the box, but the ball went wide.

Then came extra time, played under the Silver Goal system. Strong in the air, Grêmio opened the scoring after a corner kick, headed by Gustavo Japa. The "Garotos do Ninho" pressed for the equalizer until the end, creating a few chances, but failing to find the back of the net. In 20 editions of the competition, this was the eighth final for the "Mais Querido," who have won four titles and finished runners-up four times.

Flamengo played the final with Bruno, Marcos Felipe, Gabriel Noga, Hugo, Caio, Rykelmo (Dhouglas), Samuel (Negueba), Daniel Cabral (Mayquinho), Dedé, Reinier and Lázaro. Coach: Ramon Lima.