Just like in the professional league, it's very rare to see Flamengo lose in the youth league. In 2010, for example, coach Armênio Moura's team has only two losses. Not even when they were eliminated from the Copa São Paulo by CFZ-DF did the Red-Blacks lose (they drew in regulation time and ended up losing on penalties).

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The start of the year, therefore, is encouraging. In 17 matches played this season, the team from Gávea has won 11, drawn four, and lost only two. The main recipe for such results is attacking. Especially with Diego Maurício, responsible for 11 of the incredible 45 goals the team has scored in 2010. An average of 2,64 per match.

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"This group is wonderful to work with. Everyone is very dedicated, and if I score goals, it's because everyone works together and does their best on the field. We have no vanity, and that's very important," said the red-and-black striker.

The strength of the defense is also highlighted by coach Armênio Moura's team. Flamengo has conceded just 19 goals in 17 games, or just over one goal per match.

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"We know the importance of a strong defense. The games at the junior level are always very balanced, very competitive, and you have to be alert to prevent the opponent from scoring," explained defender Christianno.

The red-and-blacks hope to be rewarded for this consistency at the end of the Guanabara Cup, but they don't depend solely on themselves. The team needs to beat América and Friburguense in the next two rounds of the competition, and hope for a draw between Fluminense and Macaé next weekend to clinch the title.