In a very balanced classic played on Saturday morning (13) at Estádio das Laranjeiras, valid for the first match of the semifinal of the State Championship, Flamengo's U-17 team left the field defeated by Fluminense by a score of 2x1 (Gomes). The result means that the Garotos do Ninho have to win by any score the return match, scheduled for next Sunday (21), in Gávea, to guarantee a place in the grand final of the State Championship, and continue in the fight for the third championship of the competition. Before, on Wednesday (17), Mais Querido visits América MG, in the first leg of the round of XNUMX of the Copa do Brasil in the category.

The red-and-blacks' first chance in the derby came six minutes into the match. Ramon took a throw-in into the box, Rhyan headed it clear, and Sidney appeared as a surprise man in the box, but his shot was weak, and Marcelo made the save without much difficulty. The score was opened in the 19th minute, in style. Fluminense's defense misplayed the ball, and the ball ended up at Gomes' feet. With great skill and vision, the midfielder made a conscious pass, chipping the ball over goalkeeper Marcelo and scoring a truly magnificent goal, further increasing the Garotos do Ninho's lead in the semifinals. The rest of the first half was very even, with no clear-cut chances, but Flamengo was superior on the field and playing a well-controlled game.

In the second half, just five minutes in, Lázaro faced his marker and shot low, but Marcelo saved. However, Fluminense equalized in the seventh minute with Wallace. They turned the game around in the 19th minute with a header from João Pedro. Flamengo pushed for the equalizer. In the 34th minute, Luis Gustavo sent a low cross toward Weverton, but Marcelo got there and made the save.

The Red-Blacks pressed hard in search of an equalizer, and an incredible move occurred in the 42nd minute. First, Ítalo fired a powerful first-time shot, which was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Marcelo. Pedro Arthur fired the rebound, and Marcelo performed another miracle. Still following the play, Yuri de Oliveira's shot hit the post. Miraculously, Fluminense held on to the scoreboard and emerged from the first leg of the semifinals with a 2-1 victory.

The second and decisive match is scheduled for next Sunday (21) in Gávea, with no time yet set. With a simple victory by one goal difference, Mais Querido will be classified for the final of the State Championship. Before that, however, the Garotos do Ninho travel to Belo Horizonte, to face América MG in the first leg of the round of 17 of the Copa do Brasil in this category. The duel is scheduled for Wednesday (15), at XNUMX pm, at Estádio das Alterosas.

Coach: Phelipe Leal.