In the last round of the group stage of the Guanabara U-20 Cup, Flamengo was defeated by Vasco 3-2 on Wednesday morning (30), at the Nivaldo Pereira stadium, in Nova Iguaçu. João Gabriel, from a penalty, and Ronald, scored the goals for Rubro-Negro in the second half. It is worth remembering that Mais Querido competes in the competition with U-18 athletes, since the U-20 team is participating in the Brazilian Championship in the category.

O JOGO
Vasco started the first half better and opened the scoring in the second minute through Andrey Dias. Flamengo's first good run down the left found André inside the box, who fired a shot wide. In the 11th minute, Vasco extended their lead. Lucas ran down the right and hit a cross; the ball deflected off Marlon Gomes and into the net: 2-0.

Little by little, Flamengo began to loosen up and began exchanging passes in the Cruzmaltino midfield. With the majority of possession, Flamengo threatened down the flanks and created several scoring opportunities. In the 47th minute, João Gabriel took a dangerous free kick and nearly pulled one back for Flamengo.

Mengão came out swinging in the second half! In the 3rd minute, João Gabriel dribbled into the penalty area and was awarded a penalty. The striker himself took the penalty and reduced the score to 2-1. After the goal, Vasco began to dominate the midfield and created several chances to extend their lead. In the 31st minute, Vasco tightened their defense, stole the ball, and scored their third goal through Andrey, making it 3-1. In the 47th minute, Mengão pulled one back through Ronald, who broke free on the left flank and finished into the net, making it 3-2.

AND NOW?
Rubro-Negro awaits its opponent in the quarterfinals of the Under-20 Guanabara Cup, which will be played next Saturday (03) in Gávea. Having qualified in first place in group A, Mengão will have the advantage of home field advantage in the quarterfinals and semifinals, if it qualifies.

FLAMENGO LINEUP
Bruno, Arthur Augusto, Léo Xavier, Kayque, Maycon; Richard Almeida (Peçanha), André (Ronald), Danilo (Will), Mateus Dias (Sidney), Pedro Martins (Igor Lemos); João Gabriel.
Coach: Mario Jorge