Flamengo took another important step in structuring its youth football program by holding the first official matches at the George Helal Training Center. For the Taça Guanabara, the under-17 and under-15 teams faced Madureira at the Ninho do Urubu training center, a move that combines operational gains and strengthens the team's identity.

Using the training center as a venue for official matches has a direct impact on the teams' daily routines. Logistics are optimized, long journeys are eliminated, and better use of the schedule is achieved. Furthermore, the entire club structure is used in an integrated way on game days, from nutrition to physical preparation and recovery, which raises the level of organization and support for the athletes.

Another key point is the "home" factor. Accustomed to the training routine at Ninho do Urubu (the training center), the players find a familiar environment, which contributes to their performance on the field. Off the field, the presence of younger athletes who watch the matches reinforces the formative character of the space, brings generations closer together, and creates role models within the club itself.

On the field, the under-17 team confirmed their good form with a 3-0 victory, built on organization and efficiency. Captain Arthur Andrades, a defender of only 16 years old, scored the first two goals. Both involved direct participation from David Carrijo, who provided the assist for the first and took the free kick that led to the second, a well-worked play finished off after a pass from Pedro Henrique.

The third goal involved Lucca Tatsch, the youngest player on the Flamengo roster, who provided an assist for Anthony Avelar to seal the victory.

After the match, Arthur highlighted the importance of playing at the training center:

“It’s an incredible feeling. The feeling of playing at home. We live here every day, so it ends up feeling more natural. It’s a very special feeling and now it’s about continuing to honor our home.”

In the under-15 category, Flamengo won 2-0, also with a performance based on movement and connection in attack. Pedrinho was key, assisting both of the team's goals, both converted by teammates after good offensive build-up play: Davi Moura and Matheus Eduardo, respectively.

Holding the games at Ninho is part of a broader club plan. According to the youth football director, Alfredo Almeida, the initiative has two main pillars: logistics and identity.

“Being at home makes things easier for everyone involved and reinforces the feeling of belonging. We want the athletes to truly feel like they are playing at home. This is the first step of many. I also had the support of everyone on the board, the president, and the vice-president. We will continue at Gávea; we don't want to lose this identity, especially because it's a place that everyone is passionate about.”, highlighted.

The trend is for the use of the training center to be gradually expanded, with the inclusion of other categories and, in the future, with the presence of the public, to consolidate Ninho do Urubu as another strategic space, alongside Gávea, in the development of Flamengo's football.