In a match played on Friday night (21) at the Arsenio Erico Stadium in Asunción, Paraguay, Flamengo's U-20 team did not repeat the good performances shown in the first two rounds of Group A of the Conmebol Libertadores Cup and left the field defeated by Puerto Cabello (VEN) by a score of 1-0. Despite the negative result, the Mais Querido finished the first phase at the top of its group, with six points won and a positive goal difference of five. Thus, the Garotos do Ninho, led by coach Phelipe Leal and assistant coach Ramon Lima, are qualified for the semifinals of the most important South American competition in the category. Next Thursday (27), Rubro-Negro will face Independiente Del Valle (EQU) or Libertad (PAR), in the search for the unprecedented place in the grand final of the Libertadores. The definition of the opponent will only come out this Sunday.

The game was evenly matched, with the teams still sizing each other up, when the Venezuelans opened the scoring in the 20th minute with Eduardo Martinez. The first good chance for the red-and-blacks came in the 30th minute. After Pablo's free kick in the box, Rodrigo Muniz picked up the rebound and struck hard, drawing a good save from goalkeeper Diego Malave. In the 38th minute, Richard Rios unleashed a rocket from the edge of the box, to the left of the Venezuelan goal.

Flamengo returned for the second half pressing their opponents and determined to maintain their 100% record in the competition. In the first minute, Otavio backheeled the ball, and Diego Malave saved Puerto Cabello by smothering the ball at Rodrigo Muniz's feet. In the 13th minute, Lucas Gabriel attempted a cross, but the ball nearly went in. 

The Ninho Boys dominated the game, but Puerto Cabello's defense was tight, giving the red-and-blacks very little space to attack. In the 31st minute, Lucas Gabriel took a shot from mid-range, threatening Diego Malave's goal. Pablo then crossed, and Rodrigo Muniz headed wide. It was the Mais Querido's last chance of the match.

Coach: Phelipe Leal.