A free-kick goal by Klebinho, still in the first half, was enough for Flamengo's U-20 team to secure a crucial away win against América, in a match valid for the third round of the second phase of the Otávio Pinto Guimarães Tournament (OPG). The three points won at Giulite Coutinho put the Garotos do Ninho in sole leadership of group E with six points earned in three games, ahead of Olaria (4 points) and Madureira (3 points), who face each other this afternoon. Regardless of the result, Flamengo now only depends on itself to advance to the final of the traditional competition, and seek its tenth title, remaining the biggest champion in the history of the OPG. In the next round, Mais Querido hosts Olaria, this Saturday (03) at 10 am, at Gávea.

The difficult duel began evenly. Flamengo had possession of the ball, but América was the one creating danger. Flamengo's first good attack came in the 15th minute, with a good combination between Bill and Luiz Henrique, who finished weakly. The play was repeated in the 20th minute, and Luiz Henrique almost opened the scoring. Flamengo found their rhythm on the field and began to dominate the game. In the 31st minute, Luiz Henrique again picked up the loose ball inside the area and shot hard. The ball hit the post. 

The pressure was intense. At 37 minutes, Bill made a beautiful individual play and crossed to Wendel, who arrived a little late. In the last play of the first half, the goal finally came. At 44 minutes, Klebinho took a perfect free kick, giving Vini no chance to save it, as he could only retrieve the ball from the back of the net.

Flamengo maintained the pressure at the start of the second half and almost extended their lead in the ninth minute. Wendel made an excellent play down the left wing and crossed to Bill, who headed dangerously. From then on, the game became lukewarm and without many scoring chances. América only threatened in the 34th minute with a header that went very close to Pedro Caracoci's goal, who made a safe save in the 44th minute, securing another Flamengo victory in the competition. The goalkeeper has yet to concede a goal in three matches as a starter in the Under-20 category.

Flamengo: Pedro Caracoci, Klebinho, Matheus Dantas, Patrick, Pablo; Hugo Moura (Gabriel Kazu), Henrique (Matheus Alves), Luiz Henrique; Bill, Wendel (Lucas Silva) and Vitor Gabriel (Yuri). Coach: Marcio Torres.